How we move from point A to point B is undergoing a profound transformation. From the promise of self-driving networks to the global push for electric vehicles, the vision of tomorrow's transportation is increasingly sustainable, connected, and technology-driven. Yet, when we look at our daily commutes, the reality often feels far from that future.
Why is there such a disconnect between the grand vision of future mobility and our everyday habits? According to insights from “KEYS – Our World in Motion” webinar and a 31-country study done in 2025 on 23,000 adults Global Mobility Report, the mobility transition is not simply a question of resistance to change. In fact, while 54% of consumers say electric vehicles are good for the environment and 47% find them appealing, adoption remains uneven.
This gap highlights a broader reality: the shift is being shaped by practical and emotional barriers, from cost and charging infrastructure to trust in new technologies and concerns around data privacy. As Ipsos, one of the top 3 market research companies shows, the challenge is not just convincing people, but creating the conditions that make sustainable mobility a realistic choice in everyday life.
Quick Summary: 3 Key Facts About the Future of Mobility
- Infrastructure Over Intent: People want sustainable options, but high costs and inconvenient charging infrastructure are delaying the widespread switch to Electric Vehicles (EVs).
- Trust is the Biggest Roadblock: Only 36% feel safe in a self-driving car, and just 45% trust automakers to protect their personal data, highlighting a major challenge for future mobility adoption.
- Global Differences & Geopolitics: Mobility trends are not universal. Countries with ready infrastructure (like China) adopt EVs much faster, while global geopolitics increasingly influence which car brands consumers choose to support.
Electric Vehicle (EV) Adoption: The Cost vs. Convenience Gap
Electric Vehicles (EVs) are not taking off as fast as the industry initially expected. This hesitation does not stem from a lack of understanding. In fact, 54% of consumers globally agree that EVs positively impact the environment , and 47% find driving an electric vehicle appealing.
However, practical barriers stand in the way. For the average buyer, EVs are still too expensive, and the charging infrastructure remains highly inconvenient in many regions. Until the environment supports a seamless transition, many buyers will hold off on making the switch. In some regions, this gap is even causing policy backlash: in Belgium and France, 37% say their government is doing too much on EVs.
Future Mobility Technology: Trust and Data Privacy in Connected Cars
New mobility technology is exciting, but it is not fully trusted yet. Trust is a massive issue that will ultimately dictate how fast society adopts new solutions. For example:
- Self-Driving Cars: People are fascinated by the idea of autonomous vehicles, yet only 36% feel safe in a self-driving car.
- Connected Vehicles: Consumers are hesitant about fully connected cars, with a 31-country average showing only 45% of people trust automakers to protect their personal data. In countries like France, this trust drops to just 19%.
Global Car Market Trends: China, New Brands, and Geopolitics
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to the future of transportation, as attitudes differ drastically by country and cultural context.
China, for instance, is moving much faster on EVs and new mobility trends than other markets. Because the necessary infrastructure is already in place to support them, EV adoption is significantly higher there than in Europe. It is the exact same product, but it meets entirely different reactions based on local readiness.
Furthermore, the market is opening up differently depending on the region. Globally, only 15% of consumers would prefer to buy a new car from a tech company , but in China, this number jumps to 38%. Geopolitics now matter more than ever: 49% of buyers would avoid a car based on the automaker's nationality. Among those willing to boycott, 41% avoid Chinese brands, 38% avoid Indian brands, and 24% avoid American brands.
Automotive Advertising: Shifting from Clichés to Everyday Reality
Because consumer hesitations are deeply rooted in practical, everyday concerns, the automotive industry must rethink how it communicates. Currently, a massive 66% of automotive ads strictly follow predictable category conventions.
Instead of relying on the traditional cliché of a "car driving on a scenic mountain road," brands need to showcase relatable, real-life situations. Data proves this approach works: combining brand value with a narrative or relatable story increases the likelihood of driving behavior change by 30%. Consumers want to see how these new vehicles fit into their actual lives, not just an idealized fantasy.
Have Your Say on the Future with Ipsos iSay
The biggest challenge in mobility today is closing the gap between what people want and what works in real life. Brands and manufacturers need real consumer insights to build a better infrastructure—and that is where your voice matters.
By joining Ipsos iSay, a globally established platform, you become part of a versatile community where members can participate in many types of research. Beyond taking standard online surveys, you can engage in product testing, activity journals, and special communities.
Earn Points and Choose Your Rewards
When you share your insights, you earn points with Ipsos iSay. The platform is designed to be flexible: you can participate from your computer or use the Ipsos iSay App while on the go. To ensure you never miss relevant research, simply give consent for app and browser push notifications. You can always check the dashboard to see the estimated time required for an online survey before you begin.
Once you collect points, you can easily exchange them in the Reward Catalog. Members can choose from a variety of attractive options, including a PayPal transfer, charitable donations, or a retailer Digital Gift Card.
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* Sources: Ipsos Mobility Report 2026 and Ipsos Webinar "KEYS - OUR WORLD IN MOTION", March 2026
