CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? - An international survey conducted in 18 countries
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CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? An international survey conducted in 18 countries
EDITORIAL
Rising fuel prices, higher maintenance costs, Could the electric car alleviate the cost pressure
pressure on the used-car market and electric cars as an environmentally sound vehicle option?
that are often too expensive: While the car was Currently the opposite appears more likely. In 2022
mainly associated first and foremost with joy and the EU decided to ban combustion-engine vehicles
freedom, particularly in Germany, it is now turning from 2035. If European and US manufacturers stick to
into a necessary luxury item. The study conducted their current high priced electric vehicles, many more
by us this year shows that more and more car car drivers will find it difficult to buy a new car.
drivers are making compromises in order to buy New social challenges may emerge as a result:
and maintain a vehicle. “Mobile” exclusion is a possibility – especially
as lots of people are still dependent on a car,
This development can already be clearly seen in particularly in rural areas.
the economic behaviour of buyers. They are no
longer willing to do whatever is necessary to own Policymakers also need to act here. Mobility
a car. In order to soften the financial pressure, needs to remain accessible for all. This is shown
many drivers are deciding to “drive less to for example by the debate about government
consume less”. The alternative of not owning a car measures such as the fuel discount. Trade and
is also becoming more popular. industry are also well advised to find answers to
the emerging cost dilemma.
From an environmental point of view, this is
not the only positive effect of this cost pressure. I hope you find this an exciting read and learn
Drivers are also thinking more seriously about many interesting things.
soft mobility. Our latest survey shows cleary, that
acceptance of walking, bicycle or electric scooter
is rising as these means of transport become more
affordable and practical. Michel Thebault, CEO Consors Finanz
03CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
TABLE OF CONTENTS
METHODOLOGY The economic and marketing analyses, as well as the forecasts, were performed in
1
ARE CARS BECOMING A LUXURY?
A must-have item
The cost of using a car has rocketed
07
08
22
conjunction with the survey and consulting firm C-Ways, a specialist in Anticipation
Marketing.
Cutting costs, at any cost 38
Quantitative consumer interviews were conducted by Harris Interactive between
2
23 June and 8 July 2022 in 18 countries: Austria, Belgium, Brazil, China, France,
Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, South Africa, COMPLEMENTARY MOBILITY SOLUTIONS 49
Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom and United States.
In total, 16,600 individuals were interviewed online (CAWI method). It’s hard to live a carless life 50
These individuals, aged 18 to 65, were drawn from national samples representative
of each country. The quota method was employed to ensure that the sample
The mobility mix: an urban trend 59
was representative (gender and age). 3,000 interviews were conducted in France
and 800 in each of the other countries.
3
ELECTRIC VEHICLES?
SURE, BUT AT WHAT PRICE? 69
Cars: a source of exclusion? 70
The electric coup de grâce 79
EPILOGUE 84
Co-authored by: Luc Charbonnier and C-Ways
Editorial coordination: Patricia Bosc COUNTRY FACT SHEETS 85
Design: © Altavia Cosmic
Illustrations: Altavia Cosmic, Shutterstock APPENDICES 105
04 05CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
ARE CARS
1
BECOMING
A LUXURY?
Although there have been signs in recent years that car sales are running out of
steam, and not only because of the Covid crisis, motorists still seem unwilling to live
without a vehicle, despite the financial burden that purchasing and using a car entails.
The main driver of these budgetary tensions is fuel, with prices at the pump having
risen dramatically. This new 2023 edition of the study demonstrates that people are
prepared to travel less to avoid too much financial suffering, but also that they do not
want to be alone in taking action.
06 07CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
A must-have
Fig. 1 / Context
Global new passenger vehicle sales, 2005-2023
In millions of units.
item 2005
2006
2007
45.4
48
50.8
The sales bounce
observed in 2021, following
2008 50 the Covid crash of 2020,
2009 49.7
has failed to mask the
2010 55.8
market’s decline
General context
2011 57.8
2012 60.9
2013 63.4 China and the United States, the world’s two largest
A STRUGGLING MARKET 2014 65.7 markets, saw their sales peak in 2017 (25 million
Could the golden age of the automobile be behind vehicles sold) and 2016 (18 million), respectively.
2015 66.3
us, at least in terms of sales? This is the message This was followed by a sharp drop that cannot be
one might take away after glancing at global new 2016 69.5 blamed solely on the Covid pandemic (Fig. 2).
passenger vehicle sales over the last few years.
2017 70.7
The curve illustrating these figures since 2005 The situation has been less clear cut in Europe,
appears to have peaked in 2017, when around 2018 68.7 Japan and Brazil, but the overall picture is more or
70 million units were sold (Fig. 1). 2019 64
less the same. Indeed, all the countries surveyed
The sales bounce observed in 2021, following posted their highest sales figures before 2021, with
2020 53.9
the Covid crash of 2020, has failed to mask the fortunes varying from one year to the next (Fig. 3).
market’s decline. What’s more, supply chains are 2021 56.4
not expected to return to normal in the foreseeable
2022* 52.5
future, particularly when it comes to semi-
conductors and vehicle deliveries. 2023** 60.8
Source: OICA.
* Estimate. ** Forecast.
08 09CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 2 / Context
24.4 24.7
23.7 THE EVER-RISING PRICE Germany and Spain, price rises have been more
Global new
Chine
passenger vehicle
État-Unis
sales, 2005-2021
21.2 24.4 24.7 21.5 21.5
OF NEW VEHICLES gradual, but they remain significant (7%, 9% and
In millions of units. 23.7
19.7
20.2 While sales volumes have fallen, the same cannot 7% respectively). Only in Brazil and Japan, where
Chine État-Unis 21.2 21.5 21.5
17.9
20.2 be said for the price of new cars. In most of the trends have been strikingly similar, has the price
17 19.7
China 17 United States
16 15.5
17.9 17.4 17.5 17.2 17.2 17 countries covered by this survey, prices have been curve remained relatively flat in recent years,
14.5 16.5
17 17 16 13 13.8
15.5
15.5
17.5 14.5
14.9 rising steadily for almost a decade, with increases after a sharp increase in 2015 (Fig. 4).
14.4 17.4 17.2 17.2 17
16.5
10 13.8
14.5
12.7 15.5 of over 20% in China, the US and the UK. In France,
13 11.6 14.9
14.4 14.5
10.3 12.7
10
6.8 11.6
6.3
5.2 10.3
4.0 6.8
6.3
5.2
4.0
Fig. 4 / Context
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Change in the average price of new vehicles
Source: OICA. In €.
2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Germany France United Kingdom Spain Netherlands China Japan Brazil United States
Germany France United Kingdom Spain Netherlands China Japan Brazil United States
Fig. 3 / Context
45,000
Global new passenger vehicle sales, 2005-2021 45,000 42,380
In millions of units. 42,380
Germany
Germany France
France United
United Kingdom
Kingdom Spain
Spain Netherlands
Netherlands Japan
Japan Brazil
Brazil
40,000
40,000
5
5
35,000
35,000
4
4
30,000
3
3 30,000
25,000
2
2 25,000
20,000
1
1 20,460
20,000
20,460
15,000
0
0 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
15,000
2005
2005 2006
2006 2007
2007 2008
2008 2009
2009 2010
2010 2011
2011 2012
2012 2013
2013 2014
2014 2015
2015 2016
2016 2017
2017 2018
2018 2019
2019 2020
2020 2021
2021 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Source: Statista.
Source: OICA.
10 11CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 5
WIDE VARIATIONS
IN AVERAGE PRICES How much did you pay for this vehicle (total price A WEIGHTY PRICE
Against this backdrop of rising prices, the average minus any discounts offered and negotiated)? The 2022 edition of L’Observatoire Cetelem became heavier when equipped with electric
Share of respondents who have at least one car. focused on the SUV craze. This is a class motors, due to the presence of batteries,
sum paid by the motorists surveyed for this edition In €.
of vehicle whose weight is an inherent the average weight of European vehicles has
of L’Observatoire Cetelem is €16,181, a figure that
characteristic. Given that this edition centres remained stable since 2011, at under 1,400 kg.
is slightly higher in Europe (€16,712). This narrow EUROPE 18-COUNTRY
AVERAGE €16,712 AVERAGE €16,181
on costs, we thought it would be interesting
difference between the two main geographical to examine how the price per kilogramme of However, the price per kilo of cars has risen
regions under consideration, Europe and “the rest vehicles has evolved over the last few years. steeply over the last decade, driven by the cost
Germany 20,084
of the world”, can be largely explained by the very Isn’t this the ratio to which consumers refer of materials and equipment that improve quality.
high average price of €27,794 observed in China, Austria 18,340 when they do their food shopping (Fig. 6)? For instance, prices in the UK have risen by
almost 30%. In France, the increase has been
the world’s largest market (Fig. 5). Belgium 18,800 It is worth noting that despite the rise of SUVs, a little less dramatic, at around 25%, with the
This is a relatively new market in which new-car
which became slightly leaner between 2011 price per kg reaching €15.92. Incidentally, this is
Spain 18,666
sales have been particularly strong compared and 2020 in their petrol and diesel guises, but the same price as a kilogramme of minced beef.
to other countries. With the exception of Poland, France 16,553
the European country where the average price of
Italy 17,259
a vehicle is the lowest (€7,964), one must head Fig. 6 / Context
to the emerging economies of Brazil, Mexico and Norway 20,169
Change in the average price per kg of cars
Turkey to find the lowest average prices. In contrast, Ratio between the average price and the average weight of a new passenger vehicle. In €/kg.
Netherlands 15,194
Germany, where large saloon cars reign, Norway,
19.14
where electric cars are king, and the United States, Poland 7,964 Germany France United Kingdom Spain Netherlands
the world’s second largest market, post an average Portugal 16,110 18 17.99
price of over €20,000. At €16,553, France is in line United
14,696
with the average figure. Kingdom
16 15.92
Turkey 9,680
15.70
15.40
South Africa 13,093
Japan 16,946 14
13.68
China 27,794 12.74
12.64
United States 20,278 12
Mexico 10,459 10.76
10.46
10
Brazil 9,167
2001 2005 2010 2015 2020
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023. Source: ICCT.
12 13CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
A purchase Fig. 7
When you purchased your vehicle (new or used), did you think the price was...?
Share of respondents who have at least one car and financed it other than by leasing.
that is not
USED CAR In %.
12% 8%
EUROPE 58% 18-COUNTRY 53%
taken for granted
AVERAGE 25% AVERAGE 30%
Very reasonable Quite reasonable Quite high Very high 5% 9%
3 5 4
8 7 10 9 10 10 9 10
11 12 12 12 12
15
A REASONABLE PRICE... SECOND HAND
25
The steady increase in the price of cars does not
appear to overly trouble those who own one.
6 out of 10 respondents believe that they paid a 47
reasonable price for their vehicle. Europeans are 51
53 52 49
considerably more likely to hold this view 51
63
56 60 58 59 53
(7 out of 10). If we examine the results in greater 66 60 59
39 69
geographical detail, we see that the Portuguese 64
and Austrians are the most satisfied (8 out of 10),
while the Brazilians and South Africans are far more
split (4 out of 10) (Fig. 7). It is apparent throughout
this report that these two countries often coalesce 32
around certain views.
30 37 32
23 35 26 25
32
27 28 26 21 29
However, a more detailed analysis of the data 25
17 22 16
uncovers a clearer divide between buyers of used
18
cars and those who buy new vehicles. 77% of the 10 10 9 10 9
4 5 5 5 4 5 5 7 7 4 4
former say they are happy with the price they paid 3
for their vehicle, compared with just 57% of the
latter. This is a substantial gap and one that can be 6 out of 10 respondents
believe they paid a reasonable
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil
observed in all the countries surveyed.
price for their vehicle.
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
14 15CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 8
TAKING A FINANCIAL HIT In contrast, 43% of Turks believe that buying a car
IS UNAVOIDABLE is only for those who can afford it, compared with Do you believe that owning a car is...?
To all respondents. In %.
However, a reasonable price does not necessarily an overall average of only 15%. The tough economic
make a car easy to purchase. Although buying a car and financial circumstances the country has been The preserve of wealthier individuals EUROPE
15%
18-COUNTRY
15%
Achievable, but only through financial sacrifices AVERAGE 72% AVERAGE 69%
may generally seem affordable, it requires sacrifices facing for many months now go a long way to Financially achievable for everyone 13% 16%
that make owning a vehicle less enjoyable. 7 out explaining this result. With inflation rising at a rate
of 10 motorists believe that it can be done, but not far beyond that of other countries and the value of
3
without a degree of financial sacrifice (Fig. 8). On this the Turkish lira falling sharply, it is difficult for the 10 8 10
14 14 14 13 12 11
issue, respondents in Europe and in the rest of the population to be optimistic about buying a car. It 18 17 15 17 18
20 21
world are more or less in agreement. One country should also be noted that the feeling that cars are
stands apart somewhat, by offering a much more only for the wealthy is generally more pronounced
43
positive outlook. Only 53% of Chinese respondents among non-vehicle owners, with 3 in 10 being of
believe that buying a car and making financial this opinion. 53
sacrifices go hand in hand, but more importantly,
44% think that it is feasible for everyone. Constantly 63
and rapidly improving access to cars for a broad 73
68 67
79 64 73 78
section of the population in recent years is 61
77
73
67 73 73 77 73
undoubtedly a factor in these responses.
46
44
27
19 18 19 20 19
12 13 15
9 9 10 11 8 11 11 9
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
16 17CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
AN EFFORT RATE
THAT IS PEAKING
Fig. 9 / Context
Effort rate* for the purchase
of a new passenger vehicle
Indispensable
According to motorists, buying a car is
achievable but requires sacrifices to be
made. The indicator appropriately named
the “effort rate” shows this in stark relief.
in 2021
In %.
Germany 83
18-COUNTRY
AVERAGE 104%
just as they are
Measured by calculating the ratio between
Austria 71
the price of a car and the average annual MOTORISTS ARE NOT PREPARED The contrasts are starker when we compare the
income, this rate is close to or greater Belgium 79 TO GIVE UP THEIR CARS different generations. 34% of under-35s would be
than 1 in some countries (Fig. 9): buying Cars are considered accessible if certain sacrifices prepared to no longer own a car, compared with
a car costs some individuals their entire Spain 106
are made, but they remain fundamentally expensive just 26% of over-35s. In Germany and Norway,
annual wage.
France 73 in the eyes of motorists, even if the consensus is 1 in 2 people can see themselves doing so, versus
In the absence of homogeneous global Italy 87
that they remain essential. Three-quarters believe only 1 in 4 in Turkey and 1 in 5 in China. In France,
statistics, establishing precise and it is impossible or almost impossible to do without 4 out of 10 under-35s hold this view.
accurate trends for this effort rate over Norway 64 a car, a view commonly held in European countries
time is almost impossible. However, when and the rest of the world alike.
Netherlands 64
one considers the stagnation – or even the
reversal – of income rises in recent times, Poland 216
The populations who are the most attached to their
together with the increasing amount of
technology that goes into cars, electric Portugal 141 vehicle(s) can be found in the Netherlands, Austria,
vehicles in particular, it is not difficult United Belgium and South Africa. The Brazilians, Japanese
Kingdom
96
to imagine how tough these rates are and Norwegians are the least likely to feel this way.
becoming. Turkey 445 In France, the figure is consistent with the average,
In Europe alone, car prices have risen South Africa 590 with 72% of respondents being unable to imagine
72% of motorists cannot
a car-free existence (Fig. 10).
twice as fast as household incomes, and
that was before the 2020-2022 price shock
Japan 79 see themselves living
triggered by the pandemic and its impact China 293 As one might intuitively assume, residents of rural without a car.
in terms of restricting supplies. When the areas are significantly more likely to be car friendly.
effort required becomes too great, people United States 65
77% cannot imagine living without a car, compared
give up on the idea. When will breaking Mexico 296 with only 70% of urban dwellers. The highest
point be reached?
Brazil 353
proportion can be found in the Netherlands, while
Turkey and Mexico boast the lowest.
Source: Statista.
* Effort rate for new passenger vehicles: ratio between the average price of a car in 2021
and the annual net income per capita in 2019.
18 19CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 10 Fig. 11
PEOPLE LOVE CARS
Would you be willing to never own a car again? JUST AS THEY ARE When you last bought a vehicle, did you forego
Share of respondents who have at least one car. In %. certain features and characteristics in order
So we have seen that cars are considered
8% 8%
to reduce its purchase price?
Yes, definitely Yes, probably No, probably not No, definitely not indispensable, but this is even truer in their Share of respondents who have at least one car
EUROPE 20% 18-COUNTRY 20%
AVERAGE 37% AVERAGE 39% current guises. In this sense, whether it be in and who answered “No”. In %.
35% 33%
terms of equipment, on-board technology or
EUROPE 18-COUNTRY
innovation, automakers have done an excellent AVERAGE 59% AVERAGE 57%
3 6 6
7 8 7 7 7 7 9 6 7 9 job of convincing a majority of motorists not to
11 10 12 11
14 Germany 64
15 abandon the advances made. Indeed, 6 out of 10
15 15 18 19 15 20 respondents chose not to forego certain items of Austria 67
20
26 25 14 17 24 equipment or features when they bought their
24 29
17 24 27 Belgium 60
vehicle, for the sake of paying less. There are
significant geographical disparities, however, with Spain 55
37 the least economically developed countries proving
France 58
37 34 less intransigent. In Brazil, Turkey, South Africa, but
35 30
31 42 also Portugal, only 4 out of 10 motorists chose not Italy 50
45 43 44
29 44
38 to forego these features, whereas in Austria, the
38 45 Norway 58
44 40 Netherlands, Japan and Poland, the figure is close
48 Netherlands 67
to 7 out of 10 (Fig. 11).
Poland 66
Only a few percentage points separate buyers of
Portugal 39
43 45 42 new and used vehicles, with 55% of the former
38 41 40
36 United
30 30 31 34
30
choosing not to give up these features, compared Kingdom
65
29 28
23 24 24 with 59% of the latter. It is obviously a stretch to ask
17 Turkey 43
a used-car dealer to remove an optional extra so as
to lower the price. However, this is easier to do in South Africa 45
the case of a new car, before the purchase order has Japan 66
been signed.
China 56
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil
United States 63
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
Mexico 54
Brazil 40
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
20 21CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Using your car:
Fig. 12
If we look purely at the monetary data, automobile-
With respect to the finances at your disposal, would related expenses are the highest in the USA, Austria
you say that the overall cost of owning this vehicle and Norway, at nearly €2,000 per year (Fig. 13).
is...? (Taking into account the purchase price, instalment
the costs add up
payments, upkeep, fuel, parking costs, road tolls, etc.) However, if we take into account net annual
Share of respondents who have at least one car and income per capita, the cost burden of using a car
who consider the cost to be “High”. In %. (fuel, upkeep and insurance) looks very different.
EUROPE AVERAGE 57% 18-COUNTRY AVERAGE 57% Americans spend the smallest proportion of their
earnings on their vehicle (6.4% of their total
Germany 47 annual budget). The figure is twice as high for their
Austria 54 neighbours in Mexico (13.3%). In France, motorists
While consumers may consider the price of vehicles spend 7.7% of their annual budget on their vehicle.
Belgium 66
to be relatively reasonable, the same cannot be
said for their running costs. In addition, there are Spain 61 AN EVER GREATER FINANCIAL BURDEN
marked differences from one type of expense Not only are cars expensive to run nowadays, but
France 62
to the next. these costs continue to rise. More than 8 out of
Italy 55 10 respondents believe this to be the case, with
Norway 56 only a tiny minority being of the view that running
costs have fallen. In all the countries surveyed, the
Netherlands 48
Expensive overall
majority of respondents feel that the cost of using
Poland 63 a car is on the up (Fig. 14). Not surprisingly, given
the economic circumstances they face, the Turks
Portugal 52
are very much of this opinion (95%). Almost as
United
Kingdom
55 many South Africans agree. One has to go to Asia,
A SIZEABLE COST BURDEN Turkey 83
specifically Japan and China, to find motorists who
A majority of motorists are adamant that the are less scathing in comparison, with just under
overall cost of owning a vehicle is high relative South Africa 62 7 out of 10 respondents stating that motoring
to the finances at their disposal. 6 out of 10 are Japan 60 costs have increased.
of this opinion. This is a minority position in
China 35
only three countries, with the Chinese being the
least likely to complain about the high cost of United States 47
motoring. Conversely, the Turks, for the reasons
Mexico 52
mentioned previously, as well as the Brazilians, are
overwhelmingly likely to decry the sizeable budget Brazil 75
required (Fig. 12). Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
22 23CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 13 Fig. 14
Breakdown of the annual cost of using a vehicle by type of expense The main costs involved in using a car are fuel, upkeep, insurance and parking.
Share of respondents who have at least one car. In €. In recent years, would you say that your vehicle’s running costs...?
Share of respondents who have at least one car. In %.
Fuel Upkeep and repairs Insurance €1,692 €1,598 Have fallen Have remained stable Have risen 3% 3%
EUROPE 18-COUNTRY EUROPE 18-COUNTRY
AVERAGE €553 AVERAGE €583 AVERAGE 14% AVERAGE 15%
€572 €572 83% 82%
2 2 1 2 1 1 1 2 2
3 3 3 3 5 4 3
6 6 4
10 8 7
12 12 12 11 12
17 14 13
18 18
20
23 28
30
1,810
1,979
1,901
1,981
1,581
1,835 1,698
1,745 1,373
1,736 1,619 1,103
1,488 95
1,262 1,235 89 91 91
86 87 86 86 86
1,452 83 84
79 81 79
1,447 74
726 1,341 71
68
702 65
757
575 650
623 717
546 901
592 468 480 529 588
535
469
954 326 345
770 848
704 618 726
528 579 557 520 615
429 410 486 433
281 337 304
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023. Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
24 25CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 16
DEPRECIATION: A HIDDEN COST Have you ever avoided travelling because of COSTS PUT PEOPLE OFF
OF MOTORING transport costs, regardless of the means of Broadly speaking, cost is an issue that
Another way of considering vehicle transport in question? affects mobility as a whole. Nearly 6 out
Share of respondents who answered “Yes”.
budgets is to include not only running of 10 people say they have previously
To all respondents. In %.
costs but also the losses incurred. With decided not to travel because of the
this in mind, vehicle depreciation emerges
TO SELL cost involved, regardless of the mode of
EUROPE 18-COUNTRY
AVERAGE 55% AVERAGE 58%
as the number one budget killer in transport used (Fig. 16). In those countries
European countries, depriving motorists with the least resilient economies, such as
Germany 45
of financial leeway when buying their Turkey and South Africa, this proportion
next car. Depreciation is particularly high Austria 45 rises to almost 8 out of 10. The figure for
on the latest electric models, given the France is close to the overall average.
greater rate of obsolescence of innovative Belgium 52
high-tech products (Fig. 15). Spain 57
France 62
Italy 55
Norway 64
Netherlands 45
Fig. 15 / Context Poland 53
Estimated breakdown of vehicle running costs Portugal 70
In %.
United
58
Nearly 6 out of 10
Kingdom
Interest Repairs, maintenance, tyres Insurance Fuel/energy Road tax Depreciation
Turkey 79
people say they have
South Africa 79
DIESEL 6 12 10 17 6 49
previously decided
PETROL 6 11 10 23 5 45
Japan 33
not to travel because
China 44
of the cost involved.
HYBRID United States 61
VEHICLES
7 11 10 17 4 51
Mexico 68
ELECTRIC
VEHICLES
7 12 11 10 3 57
Brazil 77
Source: LeasePlan 2021. Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
26 27CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Insurance and upkeep, two costs
Fig. 18
NO INSURANCE AGAINST HIGH COSTS
Insurance is the number one item of expenditure How much does your car insurance cost you
per year?
that are still deemed reasonable
examined by L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile
Share of respondents who have at least one car. In €.
2023. Its cost is considered high by almost 1 in 2
respondents (Fig. 17). At the risk of repetition – and EUROPE 18-COUNTRY
AVERAGE €572 AVERAGE €572
this will not be the last time it occurs – the Turks
are the most likely to describe this cost as excessive Germany 528
(71%), while the Germans are the least likely to do
Fig. 17 Austria 954
so (38%). The geographical breakdown of views on
Do you think the price of car insurance is...? 8% 9% this topic reveals that a majority of respondents in Belgium 704
Share of respondents who have at least one car. In %. EUROPE 45% 18-COUNTRY 42%
AVERAGE 36% AVERAGE 36% several European countries believe that insurance
11% 13% Spain 429
Very reasonable Quite reasonable Quite high Very high is too expensive. This is notably the case in Belgium
2 and Norway. Just over 1 in 2 French respondents France 579
4
are also of this belief.
5 5 6 8 7 Italy 557
10 8 11 10 9 9 10 11
15 16 13
27 And yet, there is no real correlation between Norway 770
the cost of insurance and the sense that one is Netherlands 618
39
48 43 41 31 paying too much for it. At almost €1,000 per year,
39 31 43 43
34 50 46 Poland 281
52
50 49
45 Austrians incur the highest insurance costs, but
54
they are among the least likely to consider the price Portugal 337
42
excessive. At the other end of the scale, the Poles United
520
are among the most critical, despite paying the Kingdom
36 least for their policies. Once again, the French pay Turkey 304
41 37
41 42 34 close to the average, with an annual spend of €579
39 34 38
38 30 South Africa 726
30 33
27 34 38 (Fig. 18).
30 Japan 410
29
22 The Austrians incur the second highest insurance China 615
15 17 14 16 14
11 10 11 11 11 12 11 9 costs relative to their income per capita, just ahead
8 6 5
United States 848
of the Mexicans (2.5% and 2.8%, respectively). The
Poles bring up the rear in this ranking (1.1%). Mexico 486
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil
Brazil 433
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
28 29CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 19 / Context
Judging by the cost of vehicle repairs and the a distance by the Norwegians and the Austrians.
IS THE INCREASE IN CAR Change in the average annual car insurance proportion of average income that they represent, Once more, the Poles spend the least of all the
INSURANCE PRICES SET premium in France, per driver the Japanese seem to have good reason to be populations surveyed (€326), but the Turks are only
TO BE REVERSED? In €.
annoyed. With a mean spend of €901 per year, they just ahead of them in terms of expenditure (Fig. 21).
Having risen for six years in a row, car 650
are well ahead of every other country, followed at
insurance premiums fell slightly in France 641
in 2021, saving motorists an average of €9 632
compared with the previous year (Fig. 19).
615 Fig. 20
While the constant rise observed since
2016 was caused primarily by the soaring Do you consider that the amount you spend on servicing and repairing your vehicle each year is...?
price of spare parts and the passing on of 595 Share of respondents who have at least one car. In %.
12% 11%
additional costs relating to other types of EUROPE 47% 18-COUNTRY 45%
insurance (direct or indirect consequences 580 AVERAGE 31% AVERAGE 32%
Very reasonable Quite reasonable Quite high Very high
10% 12%
of natural disasters, Covid, etc.), the 566
reason for the fall recorded in 2021 is 2 3
altogether different. Indeed, the global
12 11 9 9 11 11 10 10 9 11 10
health crisis, the travel restrictions to 14 15 13
20 23
which it led and the widescale adoption 26
of remote working have contributed to 37
a significant reduction in traffic volumes 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 37
and, therefore, in the number of insurance 45 43
44 47 47
46 43 53 49
claims and payouts. There has also been Source: lelynx.fr.
52 52 36
53 51
growing competitive pressure within the
47
car insurance sector, with the arrival 42
of new entrants who are cutting prices
by applying new “pay as you drive” or
REPAIRS: A LESSER EVIL 47 35
“pay how you drive” models, where rates
When it comes to upkeep and repairs, the second 34 38 28 28
depend on the amount a car is used or the 34
34 34 32
biggest expense item for vehicle owners, the views 26 28 31
owner’s driving style. 24 32
20
28
of motorists are more measured, with just over 4 in 30
10 deeming their cost too high (Fig. 20). Once again, 16 16 18
10 12 10 11 11 10 13 10
9 9 9 9
the Turks top the list (72%), followed this time by 5 6
the Japanese, who are also up in arms about high
prices. Meanwhile, the Americans and the Brits do
not appear to suffer excessively from the financial
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil
outlay involved (30% and 34%). What of the French?
They fall into line with the average, of course.
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
30 31CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 21 Fig. 22 / Context
If we look at the repairs-to-income ratio, the
Japanese sit in second place, with the Mexicans How much do you estimate that you spend on Spare parts price index in France (excluding VAT and on a like-for-like basis)
taking the lead once again (2.7% and 3.1% servicing and repairing your vehicle each year? compared to the consumer price index
Share of respondents who have at least one car. In €. 2015 = 100.
respectively). And we find the same two countries at
the foot of the ranking: Poland and the United States. Spare parts price index Consumer price index in Metropolitan France
EUROPE 18-COUNTRY
AVERAGE €553 AVERAGE €583
125
It should also be noted that spending on repairs
120
is very similar regardless of whether vehicles are Germany 592
bought new or used. New cars are usually booked 115
Austria 726
in for regular servicing at dealerships, which comes 110
at a cost, while second-hand vehicles tend to be Belgium 575
105
repaired more frequently, but at cheaper prices. Spain 535 100
France 546 95
Italy 468 90
2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021
Norway 757 Source: INSEE, SRA.
Netherlands 623
Poland 326
Portugal 469
SPARE PARTS PRICES SKYROCKET
United
480
Kingdom It isn’t just cars that are becoming more singled out as a cause of inflated prices for
Turkey 345 expensive every year: spare parts prices are consumers. The liberalisation of the car parts
rising too. Several coinciding factors have market by the “Climate and Resilience” Act of
South Africa 650 contributed to an increase of almost 30% 22 August 2021 could help reverse the trend
over the last decade (Fig. 22). (in France). However, progress looks set to
Japan 901
Vehicles are becoming better equipped be slow and gradual, since the legislation
China 717 and parts are increasingly sophisticated will only cover the automotive glass market
and complex to produce. Recent shortages as of January 2023. In the meantime, to help
United States 702 (affecting electronic chips in particular), lighten the bill, consumers can rely on local
longer lead times and soaring raw material mechanics. Indeed, since 2017 the latter have
Mexico 529
costs all explain the recent surge in prices. been required to provide an alternative quote
Brazil 588 The monopoly enjoyed by automakers when based on the use of second-hand parts, which
it comes to spare parts is also regularly are obviously less expensive.
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
32 33CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fuelling PETROL, MY DEAR!
While the cost of insurance and repairs is a matter
much, given that 49% of Chinese motorists agree
with the suggestion. In every other country, it is
the problem
for some debate, the same cannot be said for fuel. unquestionable, especially in Turkey where 9 out of
The findings are clear: 7 out of 10 motorists feel 10 people believe the cost is high. The Japanese and
that their fuel budget is high (Fig. 23). Mexicans are a little less vehement, although they
China is the only country surveyed in which this are not as measured as the Chinese.
is not a majority-held view, although not by
Fig. 23
Do you feel that your vehicle’s monthly fuel budget is? 7% 7%
Share of respondents who have at least one car. In %. EUROPE 20% 18-COUNTRY 22%
AVERAGE 34% AVERAGE 34% Fig. 24 / Context
39% 37%
Price of a litre of petrol at the pump
Very reasonable Quite reasonable Quite high Very high
1 In $.
WORLD $0.98
5 4 4 5 6 5 6 6 6 6 AVERAGE $1.35
7 9 11 9 7 7 2016 August 2022
11
14 19
17 18 19
20 21 20 16 1.39 1.54
26 25 23 20 Germany Portugal
22 29 1.73 1.77
34
30
21 40 Austria
1.20 United 1.46
35 1.75 Kingdom 2.01
30
34 28 31
31 40 31 29 Belgium
1.43 Turkey
1.42
34 1.84 1.18
36 36
41 23
36 1.36 1.22
Spain South Africa
1.78 1.48
45
France
1.39 Japan
1.06
58 42 1.72 1.20
49 47 46 46
42 43 42 42
33 37 33 36 37 Italy
1.61 China
0.96
28 28 1.75 1.32
15
7 Norway
1.78 United States
0.71
2.31 1.09
Netherlands
1.68 Mexico
0.73
2.05 1.18
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil 1.07 1.02
Poland Brazil
1.39 1.04
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023. Source: TheGlobalEconomy.
34 35CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
SPECTACULAR PRICE RISES Fig. 25 Motorists in Japan are relatively unmoved by the
A quick glance at diesel prices at the pump in How much does refuelling your car cost you impact of high fuel prices and it is they who report PRESSURE ON CRUDE OIL PRICES
several of the countries surveyed goes some way per month? the lowest estimated monthly expenditure: €92. On 24 February 2022, the day on which
Average value. Share of respondents who have Vladimir Putin announced the launch of a
to explaining the feelings of motorists (Fig. 24). at least one car. In €. In all other countries the figure exceeds €100, in
“special operation” in Ukraine, the price of
In Japan, price rises have indeed remained relatively some cases by a significant margin. In Belgium and
a barrel of crude oil exceeded $100 for the
contained. Conversely, in the United States and EUROPE 18-COUNTRY the United States, the leading pair in this particular
AVERAGE €141 AVERAGE €133 first time in 7 years. After several years of
Mexico prices have risen by more than 50%, causing ranking, spending on fuel totals €165 a month. prices staying below $80, we appear to be
consumers in those countries to forget how low In most EU countries, Portugal and Poland aside, entering a highly uncertain period. Today’s
Germany 153
they still are compared to other countries. monthly fuel budgets are fairly similar. geopolitical and economic cocktail could
Austria 151 hold many more surprises (Fig. 26).
This increase has had a direct impact on the Belgium 165
distances motorists drive. In France, an extra euro
Spain 145
on the price of a litre of diesel prompts motorists to
travel 1,000 fewer kilometres per year in the short France 145 Fig. 26 / Context
term. Over the long term, such a price increase Change in the price of a barrel of Brent crude oil
Italy 135
reduces the average annual distance travelled In $ per barrel.
by 7,500 kilometres. Norway 158
120
Netherlands 141
THE IMPACT OF PRICES
AT THE PUMP VARIES Poland 112 100
In concrete terms, the average monthly fuel Portugal 121
budget of motorists in the 18 countries covered 80
United
124
by L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023 is Kingdom
€133. Although prices have skyrocketed everywhere, Turkey 121 60
there are significant differences between the
South Africa 132
countries, and not always where one would expect 40
them (Fig. 25). Japan 92
20
China 114
United States 165 0
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022*
Mexico 105
Brazil 103
Source: EIA.
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023. * Forecast.
36 37CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Cutting Taking personal
Fig. 27 country fuel costs have caught people’s attention
Do you take measures to reduce the cost of using far more than any other factor. And, for once,
your vehicle?
action
Europe is where the desire to limit fuel spending
Share of respondents who have at least one car and
costs,
who answered “Yes”. In %. is the most powerful. An analysis of every other cost
item reveals local variations. In France, reducing
EUROPE
AVERAGE 57% 18-COUNTRY
AVERAGE 60% the amount spent on motorway tolls,
a French speciality, is the second-highest priority.
MOTORISTS ARE TAKING MEASURES
at any cost
Germany 50
In Belgium, Brazil and the Netherlands, spending
Faced with an economic situation that is looking less on parking comes second. In Italy and Japan,
ever bleaker, motorists are far from complacent. Austria 49 the concern is more with bringing down the cost
They believe that the cost of running their vehicle Belgium 58 of insurance.
is too high. 6 out of 10 are adopting measures to
Spain 59
limit these costs (Fig. 27). This reaction has been PRIORITY NO. 1:
particularly strong in the four countries with the France 68 DRIVE LESS TO CONSUME LESS
weakest economies, with three-quarters of South To lower their fuel bill, motorists are willing to
Italy 57
Africans, Brazilians and Mexicans taking specific consider several options, the first being the most
action, and an even higher proportion of Turks. Norway 58 obvious: driving less. 6 out of 10 people have
Of the remaining countries, France is home to the Netherlands 49 embraced this measure. The consensus is broadly
largest majority of individuals who are keen to act in favour of this approach, the exceptions being
Poland 61
(7 out of 10). The central focus placed on fuel prices Japan and China, where 1 in 3 and 1 in 5 motorists,
during the lengthy electoral period that preceded Portugal 64 respectively, are willing to consider it. Along with
this survey may well have had something to do United the South Africans, the French are the most likely
Kingdom
47
with this result. In contrast, the Japanese, British, to reduce the mileage they cover (69% and 65%
Austrians and Dutch show less gusto. Turkey 78 respectively).
South Africa 74
AN ASSAULT ON FUEL CONSUMPTION So motorists are keen to drive less, but 46% of
Take measures? Sure, but how? One need not be Japan 44 respondents are also interested in comparing
psychic to guess where people are concentrating China 58 fuel prices and searching for the cheapest
their efforts. The answer is obvious from the service stations.
United States 51
previous pages. According to 65% of respondents,
the main priority is to reduce fuel expenses (Fig. 28). Mexico 74
The Japanese are the one exception. As we have
Brazil 74
seen, they do not appear to be suffering unduly
from prices at the pump, while in every other Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
38 39CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 28
Paradoxically, this means that they are driving city dwellers. When it comes to searching for cheaper
Which types of expense are you most interested in reducing? further and therefore burning more fuel to do so. fuel and driving in a way that is more economical,
Share of respondents who have at least one car and have taken measures to reduce the cost of using their vehicle.
This option is much less appealing to the Turks the gap is smaller (4% and 6%, respectively).
and South Africans.
Parking fees
Fuel Upkeep Toll roads
(diesel, petrol, etc.) and maintenance
Insurance
(motorways)
(renting a space, Looking at the ranking of measures people are
parking in town, etc.)
An almost identical proportion of motorists (44%) prepared to take, switching to other modes of transport
Germany 63% 24% 24% 13% 23% are willing to change their driving style. This is another fairly popular option (36%), particularly
Austria 75% 26% 24% 10% 15% means driving more smoothly and more slowly. among urban dwellers (39% vs. 27% of country
Norwegians, many of whom use electric vehicles, dwellers), but it is clear most of all that certain eco-
Belgium 71% 15% 17% 20% 35%
are not particularly inclined to take their foot off friendly solutions are of little interest to motorists.
Spain 68% 27% 23% 18% 26%
the accelerator or drive less aggressively (24%).
France 67% 18% 12% 37% 30% Choosing a more fuel-efficient vehicle appeals to
Italy 68% 26% 30% 19% 24% On these three points, the difference between residents only 1 in 5 people and ridesharing to only 1 in 10.
of rural and urban areas is significant. 61% of rural However, the figure for the latter reaches 1 in 5
Norway 67% 23% 15% 22% 22%
inhabitants plan to drive less, compared with 51% of in Turkey, South Africa and Mexico (Fig. 29).
Netherlands 68% 15% 18% 12% 34%
Poland 71% 24% 21% 20% 22% Fig. 29
Portugal 61% 27% 20% 28% 24% What measures have you taken to reduce fuel costs?
United
Share of respondents who have at least one car and have taken measures to reduce the cost of using their vehicle.
61% 23% 20% 12% 24% Select one or more answers. In %.
Kingdom
Turkey 65% 40% 19% 21% 22% Europe average 18-country average
South Africa 66% 39% 23% 17% 19%
Reduced the amount 58 Avoided using fuel-hungry 26
Japan 49% 25% 32% 20% 24% of driving you do 54 features, such as air conditioning 30
Compared fuel prices and Opted for a more fuel-efficient 20
China 62% 44% 26% 17% 30%
searched for the cheapest service 47 vehicle 23
stations, so as to fill up in the 46
United States 63% 34% 25% 16% 16% right place and at the right time 11
Used ride sharing
12
Mexico 59% 38% 18% 20% 28% Adjusted your driving style:
driving more slowly, driving more 45 Converted your car
6
Brazil 58% 29% 19% 20% 43% smoothly, coasting, avoiding 44 to ethanol (FlexFuel unit)
traffic jams or electric (retrofit) 8
EUROPE AVERAGE 67% 23% 20% 20% 26%
Used other modes of transport 32 You have taken no measures
3
18-COUNTRY AVERAGE 65% 28% 21% 20% 26% when possible 36 2
Other
2
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
2
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
40 41CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 31
REPAIRING YOUR OWN CAR The two Iberian nations are where dealer networks FEWER SAVINGS ARE EXPECTED
IS ALWAYS A WINNER have the most to worry about. DIY maintenance ON THE INSURANCE SIDE OF THINGS What measures have you taken to reduce
Focusing on upkeep and maintenance is another is also popular, with 3 in 10 motorists stating that The third stage of the cost reduction rocket, i.e., car insurance costs?
Share of respondents who have at least one car and
possible avenue for cost-cutting motorists (Fig. 30). they are prepared to get their hands dirty. The spending less by making savings on insurance, is a have taken measures to reduce the cost of using
Car dealership networks bear the biggest brunt of highest proportions of home mechanics are to be somewhat trickier proposition (Fig. 31). It is worth their vehicle.
this self-sufficient approach. Of those motorists found in China and the United States. A quarter noting first of all that 24% of those who seek to cut Select one or more answers. In %.
who seek to lower costs, almost 4 in 10 opt to have of those surveyed put their faith in an even more costs have taken no steps in this direction, with
their vehicle serviced and repaired by independent radical solution: reducing the amount of vehicle Europeans being the most reluctant to do so. 6% Europe average 18-country average
mechanics. servicing and maintenance performed. More than have even decided to drive uninsured.
Compared different
4 out of 10 Turks are tempted by the idea. insurers to find
31
the best deal
32
The main way of saving money on insurance is to
compare deals (32%), something that has been Regularly renegotiated the 20
price of your insurance 20
embraced in a very uneven way. Indeed, 47% of
Fig. 30 Changed your insurance
drivers in Turkey choose to do so, compared with policy as soon as you found
18
What alternatives have you chosen to reduce the cost of upkeep and maintenance? 19
just 19% in the Netherlands. Purely for financial a better deal
Share of respondents who have at least one car and have taken measures to reduce the cost of using their vehicle.
reasons, 17% have also decided to downgrade Opted for a third-party
Select one or more answers. In %. policy rather than fully
20
their cover by going for a third-party policy. comprehensive insurance
17
Europe average 18-country average
Parked your car in a secure, 15
Another route people go down is to regularly enclosed location 17
Had servicing and maintenance performed by an independent mechanic 37 switch insurers (19%), with the Chinese and the
rather than at a dealership 40 Purchased tailored
10
British leading the way in this area. Also popular insurance (pay per mile,
12
Carried out servicing and maintenance yourself or had it done 27 for example)
by someone you know 30 among some motorists is parking their car in a
Increased your excess to
secure location, which is the best way of avoiding reduce your insurance
11
Reduced your vehicle’s servicing and maintenance frequency
24 12
25 accidents (17%). Tailored insurance, including premium
Had servicing and maintenance performed unofficially 14
policies linked to the mileage covered, appeals to Designated an individual
with more experience or 10
(undeclared work) 16 12% of respondents. a no-claims bonus as the 11
main driver
You have taken no measures
25
22
Driven without insurance
5
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
6
You have taken no 27
measures 24
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
42 43CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Action is GOVERNMENTS MUST ACT
The main type of measure people would like
expected from
governments to take is financial, with respondents
keen first and foremost to see fuel prices capped
(Fig. 32). 1 in 2 motorists would like to see this
carmakers and
happen. Rural dwellers are the most likely to be
in favour of such a policy, particularly in France,
where 67% are of this view. The Purchasing Power
governments
Act passed by the French parliament on 4 August
this year includes a measure that grants a discount
on the price of fuel, having seemingly taken these
demands into account. By contrast, motorists in
both China and Japan are less fervent in their desire
While motorists are doing what they can to lower to see fuel prices limited (36%).
Fig. 32
the cost of using their vehicle, they also expect
governments and brands to offer their support Again on the financial front, close to 4 out of 10 In your opinion, which government measures would be the most effective in reducing the cost of buying
on this issue. motorists would like to see the government lower and using a car?
To all respondents. Select up to two answers. In %.
the various taxes car users are charged. The Poles
are the least likely to hold this view, contrary to Europe average 18-country average
the Brazilians.
Cap fuel prices
54
Two other measures achieve almost equal levels 52
of popularity: just over 1 in 5 respondents would Reduce the taxes motorists are charged
37
38
like public transport to be developed further
1 in 2 motorists would like and support to be offered to those who purchase Develop public transport
23
23
governments to cap electric vehicles. Both solutions are favoured
21
fuel prices. by urban dwellers. When it comes to improving Introduce or increase grants for the purchase of electric vehicles
21
public transport, the opinions of the Chinese and
Offer low-cost leasing deals for low-income households
14
Americans are at odds (36% vs. 15%). As regards 16
support for those who switch to an electric vehicle,
Lower speed limits to reduce fuel consumption
11
Spain and Germany are at opposite ends of the 11
scale (31% and 14%). 4
Other
4
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
44 45CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
ACCORDING TO
7 OUT OF 10 MOTORISTS
CARMAKERS NEED TO PUT THEIR HANDS and 53%). The former is a nation of electric vehicle
THE ESSENTIAL
TO THE WHEEL users, the latter a land of cheap fuel.
If motorists expect a great deal from governments,
they also believe that brands should not simply sit Another approach, which aims to reduce fuel
back and watch, buoyed by their strong results (more consumption via a different route, is to design
buying a car is possible
but requires financial sacrifices
on this later). It is clear that they too will need to lighter vehicles (32%). This is an avenue favoured
6 OUT OF 10 MORE THAN 8 OUT OF
place an emphasis on the fuel factor (Fig. 33). in Germany, which is renowned for its large
PEOPLE 10 MOTORISTS
64% of those surveyed are of the view that saloon cars.
manufacturers should primarily be designing more
fuel-efficient vehicles. This is an opinion shared Limiting distribution costs and reducing the
by almost twice as many people as the next quantity of equipment fitted to vehicles receives
item in the list, further evidence of the immense far fewer positive responses, another sign that
have decided not to believe that running
importance that motorists place on this issue. Not manufacturers should really be directing their
travel in the past costs are increasing
surprisingly, the Norwegians and Americans are energy towards improving fuel economy, which has because of the cost
the least likely to back this kind of measure (56% a clear day-to-day impact. of using their car
7 OUT OF 10 1 IN
MOTORISTS 2 PEOPLE
Fig. 33
In your opinion, which measures by carmakers would be the most effective in reducing the cost
of buying and using a car?
To all respondents. Select up to two answers. In %.
believe their fuel believe car insurance
Europe average 18-country average
budget is too high is expensive
MORE THAN 1 IN
Developing more fuel-efficient vehicles
63
6 OUT OF 10 2 PEOPLE
64
3 IN 4
Developing smaller and lighter vehicles
33
32
MOTORISTS MOTORISTS
Limiting distribution costs, e.g., by selling online
22
25
18
want
Offering less well-equipped vehicles
18 governments
9 want carmakers to produce to take action
Other
8 could not live more economical vehicles on the price
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023. without their car of fuel
46 47CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
OTHER MOBILITY
2
SOLUTIONS, USED
IN A COMPLE-
MENTARY WAY
Going back in history, especially pre-history, mankind was nomadic.
Mobility was essential to both the survival and security of humans. Since the early
20th century, this mobility has been embodied by the automobile. Every day and during
the weekends and holidays, cars are a central part of people’s journeys.
However, under the direct influence of structural economic, environmental and
societal changes, of which climate change is one of the most striking examples,
behaviours and practices are evolving. The automobile’s influence is being eroded.
The development of public transport and the emergence of soft mobility, particularly
in towns and cities, are increasingly providing natural and complementary
alternatives to cars, which are seeing their central role in society diminish.
48 49CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
It’s hard to live
MORE AT HOME ON RURAL ROADS the smaller nations in terms of size, as illustrated
THAN ON CITY STREETS by the fact that 68% of Dutch and 60% of Belgian
The types of roads motorists use reveals a clearer drivers use their vehicle in both rural and urban
a carless life
geographical divide. Indeed, the Europeans tend environments (Fig. 35). The countries where people
to use their cars equally in urban and rural drive their cars primarily, not to say exclusively,
environments, while the rest of the world use their in urban areas tend to be those containing vast
vehicles mainly in towns and cities. If we consider expanses of land and numerous megacities, such
the world as a whole, 1 in 2 people say they use as Brazil and China (88% and 80%).
their vehicle in both urban and rural settings. The
countries where car use is more varied tend to be
Fig. 34
At the heart Would you say that you use your car...?
Share of respondents who have at least one car. Share who answered “Regularly” or “More often”.
Give one answer for each type of journey.
of people’s Europe average 18-country average
89% 90%
journeys…
78% 79%
daily journeys, including commuting. In these 75%
71%
situations, three-quarters of people use their car.
It is worth noting that this score is down by
5 points compared to last year, presumably due to
UNBRIDLED PRACTICALITY the impact of the global health crisis, which led
In every imaginable day-to-day situation, cars to fewer people travelling to their workplace.
unquestionably remain the ideal mode of transport.
This is especially true when shopping or enjoying With such high scores, it makes sense that the
sporting activities (Fig. 34). 9 out of 10 respondents differences between countries are smaller. The
say they use their vehicle often or very often in Austrians, the French and the British are slightly
these cases. When they go away for the weekend less likely than average to use their cars on a daily For daily journeys, For personal reasons and leisure purposes For occasional journeys,
including commuting to work (shopping, sporting activities, etc.) such as weekends away or holidays
or on holiday, 8 out of 10 choose to go by car. basis (63%, 64% and 64%), unlike the Chinese, the
This proportion drops slightly when it comes to Mexicans and the South Africans (90%). Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023.
50 51CARS: WHATEVER IT TAKES? 2023
Fig. 35 Fig. 36
THE BIGGER THE COUNTRY,
What do you use your vehicle for? How many kilometres do you estimate THE MORE PEOPLE DRIVE
Share of respondents who have at least one car. One answer only. that you cover in your vehicle per year? One measure of automobility is the distance
Share of respondents who have at least one car. In km.
travelled. According to the data collected, motorists
Mostly or exclusively in rural areas 11% 9% EUROPE 18-COUNTRY drive an average of 13,600 km a year in the
AVERAGE 13,150 km AVERAGE 13,600 km
EUROPE 18-COUNTRY
Both in an urban environment and in more rural areas 51% 42%
Mostly or exclusively in urban areas
AVERAGE
38%
AVERAGE
49% countries surveyed (Fig. 36). And once again, there
is a correlation between the size of the country
1 2 2 1 Germany 13,600
and the number of kilometres driven. The top four
7 5 8 5 8 7 7 Austria 13,700 nations in this particular ranking are Brazil, Turkey,
13 10 12
15 17 China and Mexico, the 5th, 37th, 4th and 14th largest
19 18 Belgium 13,350
28 26 countries in the world, respectively. Italy sits in
31 32 Spain 13,350 5th place, pulling off the “feat” of surpassing the
34 34 36 United States, the world’s 3rd largest country in
44 France 12,400
51 terms of surface area. It is interesting to note that
48
48 Italy 14,150 France lies at the bottom of this ranking, with
53 an average of 12,400 km travelled per year.
49 47 68 Norway 12,450
60
Netherlands 12,900
56 88 Poland 12,850
80
73
68 66
Portugal 13,250
58 59 57 United
51 Kingdom
12,150
45 44 42
Turkey 16,350
The average distance covered
34
25
34 34
24
by motorists in Europe is
South Africa 14,550
16 13,150 km per year.
Japan 11,750
China 14,700
United States 13,700
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Spain
France
Italy
Norway
Netherlands
Poland
Portugal
United
Kingdom
Turkey
South Africa
Japan
China
United States
Mexico
Brazil
Mexico 15,050
Brazil 16,500
Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2023. Source: L’Observatoire Cetelem de l’Automobile 2022.
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