Autos Consumer Insights

Implications - Going “carbon neutral,” or having “zero carbon emissions,” has become a requisite for many companies. The new green standard requires that individuals and businesses reduce emissions so that there is no carbon released. Other strong movements are carbon offsetting project funding.

Implications - The coeval awareness for the environment and rising fuel costs have primed drivers for alternative fuels. Consumers don’t want to give up their lifestyles, nor do they want to contribute to global warming. Biodiesel and ethanol aside, fuel can be made from human fat, methane, even algae.

Implications - Fuel cell technology is quickly changing the way we power our devices, from cell phones and laptop computers to motorcycles and full-sized SUVs. The more that fuel cell innovations emerge, the more consumers will come to expect other, even all, products to align with their eco-conscious principles.

Implications - Electric cars are not in the future: they’re here now! A variety of zero-emission, battery-powered cars are on the market today and thousands more are in design and concept stages. From the cheap Tata Nano in India, to the eco luxury Tesla Roadster in California, people are ready to abandon their gas guzzlers for good.

Implications - While a few decades ago, people were predicting space-ship-like vehicles in the new millennium, some designers are blasting back to the past for their design inspiration. The use of wood brings back nostalgia for wood-paneled station wagons, but the sleekness of these supercar bodies keeps them modern.

Implications - This decade has seen a lot of retro revivals, particularly in home and fashion. The fascination with iconic design has now flooded the luxury automotive market. While cars like the Corvette never really lost their appeal, cars that practically disappeared after the 1930s are making a turbocharged comeback.

Implications - For many affluent consumers, eco-friendly qualities have become integral in earning the title of ‘luxury.’ This is especially true in the automobile sector. The electric Tesla Roadster supercar, for example, is the most in-demand car in Hollywood, with an extensive wait list despite its $100,000+ price tag.

Implications - While most supercar designs are being tailored to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, others are still producing luxury vehicles that thrive on engine power and opulent design. Despite being highly criticized, there are consumers who remain insensitive to the environment and hungry for extravagance.

Implications - These oddly shaped motorcycles speak to people’s desire for unique objects that defy norms. The demographic targeted with such bikes is very different from those that Harley Davidson targets. These are mostly geared toward the growing niche of eco-conscious consumers seeking attention.

Implications - Consumers are happily abandoning their gas guzzling trucks or testosterone-boosting monster motorcycles for more environmentally friendly vehicles. In the first half of 2008, scooter sales were already up by 65.7%, but with the gas prices escalating closer to 2009, the demand jumped further.