The historic and strong bond between Italians and cars appears to be changing significantly: while cars are currently the most widely used means of transport for 40% of Italians, this figure could fall to 24% within five years. This decline is greater than that recorded in other major European markets. In Germany, for example, the decline will be more moderate (falling from 48% to 41%), while in France it will drop from 53% to 39%. Despite a slight reduction (from 52% to 48%), the British will maintain a strong connection with cars. In Spain, however, the decline will be even more pronounced, with a drop from 38% to 21%.
Source: rEVolution – New Mobility | Eumetra
For decades, the car has been a prominent feature in the lives of Italians and Europeans alike, symbolising freedom, status and practicality. However, the uncertainty perceived by consumers is leading to a gradual shift away from private vehicles, which could have economic and social consequences. What specifically are the reasons for this phenomenon?
The gradual decline in the attractiveness of private cars as the main means of transport is the result of a series of concurrent factors ranging from regulatory policies to consumer expectations. On the one hand, European and national regulations are leading to the gradual replacement of internal combustion vehicles. Conversely, local authorities are imposing increasingly stringent traffic restrictions, thereby encouraging the use of public transport and shared mobility solutions. Added to this is the change in users’ habits and preferences. Many Italians envisage a future in which they will choose two-wheeled vehicles or public transport more often. This is not just a question of environmental sustainability, but also of practicality and economy. The rising cost of living, high fuel prices, and uncertainty surrounding new automotive technologies are causing more and more people to question the convenience of owning a car. Another aspect to consider is the role of the automotive supply chain. The transition to electric vehicles is changing the balance of the sector, with new players emerging and traditional production and distribution logic being scaled down. The supply of electric mobility solutions — from component production to charging network management — will become increasingly important, altering the competitive landscape and reshaping the labour market. This transformation poses a significant challenge to the Italian and European automotive industry, which must adapt its business models to changing demand.
The potential decline in the importance of private cars requires us to consider the future of mobility more broadly: how can we ensure efficiency, accessibility and sustainability without disadvantaging the industry or its customers? In the global context, the ability to innovate and anticipate citizens’ needs will be key to addressing this evolution. Investing in modern infrastructure, efficient public transport, and new, integrated mobility solutions will be essential for managing this transition smoothly. The future of mobility will not be dominated solely by cars, but by a variety of transport options that can respond flexibly and sustainably to societal needs. Above all, the bicycle will play an increasingly important role in our travel: by 2030, more than 10% of Italians will use it as their main means of transport. This trend is also evident in France and Germany, albeit with different values, as well as in Spain and the United Kingdom.
Italy has always demonstrated its ability to meet the challenges of innovation. Open dialogue between institutions, industry and citizens is needed more than ever today to ensure that the mobility of the future is an opportunity for all.