Driving the Future: Unveiling Middle East Trends in Autonomous, Electric, and Shared Mobility
The automotive industry is on the brink of a revolution, with Autonomous, Connected, Electric Vehicles (EVs), and Shared Mobility at the forefront of this transformation. To understand how these innovations are being perceived in the Middle East, Drive Global conducted the ACES Monitor—an extensive research study aimed at tracking awareness, knowledge, desire, and adoption of these key trends among consumers in the region.
The State of Awareness: A Mixed Bag
The research revealed that while there is high awareness of Electric Vehicles, with 83% in KSA and 93% in UAE, other aspects like Autonomous (Self-driving) Vehicles, Shared Mobility, and Connected Features are less understood. The buzz around Electric Vehicles, driven by environmental concerns and the promise of cutting-edge technology, has captured the public’s attention. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding the differences between BEV, HEV, PHEV, and FCEV—only 2% in KSA and 8% in UAE could identify these distinctions.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap
While awareness of EVs is high, this does not necessarily translate into understanding. The study highlights that knowledge of EV-related terms and technologies remains low, with a small percentage of consumers able to differentiate between various types of electric vehicles. This knowledge gap presents an opportunity for OEMs and mobility solution providers to educate consumers, helping them make informed decisions and thereby enhancing brand loyalty.
The Perceived Benefits and Purchase Consideration
Despite the knowledge gap, there is a strong inclination towards purchasing EVs in the future. The study found that 9 in 10 consumers in KSA and UAE are open to buying an electric vehicle, largely driven by perceived environmental benefits and lower running costs. However, there is skepticism about the actual impact on pollution, with many consumers believing that the benefits depend on the source of electricity used for charging.
Educating for the Future
The findings from Drive Global’s ACES Monitor underscore the importance of education in driving the adoption of new automotive technologies. As the Middle East continues to evolve, the role of OEMs and mobility providers will be crucial in bridging the knowledge gap, ensuring that consumers are well-informed and confident in their purchasing decisions.