Listen: what’s the future of driving going to look like?

Brits are taking “commitment issues” to a whole new level as the UK accelerates into what experts are calling the flexibility economy. New research from SIXT’s Mobility Study suggests that subscription is the way forward, from streaming platforms to fashion rentals. 90% Brits say flexibility is the most important factor in their daily life choices. Long-term commitments, it seems are increasingly out of step with modern values.

The study shows that car ownership tendencies are changing. 62% of Brits currently own a vehicle outright, compared to 75% a decade ago1. For non-car owners, cost is a major roadblock (40%), while another 25% say long term maintenance puts them off entirely. This ties into a wider “flexibility revolution”, with 92% of adults now prioritising flexibility in daily life – up from 72% who prioritised convenience in 2023.

Instead, consumers are seeking models that mirror their digital lives: 72% would try a “Netflix-style” car subscription, and 2 in 5 (43%) say a low monthly cost or flexible terms would make them more likely to switch. This marks a major shift from 2023, when 78% of UK adults said they were unfamiliar with car subscriptions – showing awareness and interest have risen sharply in just two years.

Aston spoke to Andrew Smith, managing director at SIXT UK.

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