Young Urbanites Favor EVs as the Future of Mobility

SAUDI ARABIA :  A new survey by Economist Impact, sponsored by Nissan, highlights the rising preference for electric vehicles among young city dwellers, with enthusiasm surging in emerging markets.

• Over 57% of young urbanites are ready to change travel habits to reduce their carbon footprint.
• EV ownership is projected to rise from 23% to over 35% in the next decade.
• Emerging cities show greater EV interest due to pollution concerns and sustainability goals.
• More than 40% of respondents are excited about EVs' energy storage and alternative uses.

A global youth survey by Economist Impact, sponsored by Nissan, reveals a strong shift toward electric vehicles (EVs). Conducted among 3,750 respondents across 15 cities, the study highlights young urbanites' growing awareness of sustainability and technological advancements in electrification. 

With EV ownership projected to grow significantly, the findings reinforce Nissan’s commitment to innovation and green mobility solutions.

EV Adoption on the Rise

The survey found that EV ownership preference will increase by over 50% in the next ten years. While only 23% of young city dwellers currently own an EV, this figure is expected to exceed 35%. Enthusiasm is particularly high in emerging cities, where 44% of respondents plan to drive EVs within five years, compared to 31% in developed cities. 

Pollution and environmental concerns are key drivers of this trend, pushing urban populations toward sustainable mobility.

Sustainability and Technological Advancements

Environmental consciousness plays a major role in shaping travel choices. The survey indicates that 57% of young urbanites are willing to change their mobility habits to reduce their carbon footprint.

Additionally, over 40% of respondents are eager to explore emerging EV technologies, such as energy storage, alternative fuels, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) capabilities. These innovations are expected to transform EVs from mere transport tools into energy management solutions.

Challenges in EV Adoption

Despite strong interest, challenges remain. In emerging cities, concerns about EV batteries, charging infrastructure, and availability of renewable energy are prominent. Meanwhile, developed cities focus on EV affordability, as prices remain higher than traditional combustion-engine vehicles.

Addressing these concerns will be crucial in accelerating EV adoption and making them a practical choice for young urban dwellers.

Nissan’s Vision for a Sustainable Future

Nissan is actively working to enhance EV accessibility and affordability. The company is investing in smart charging solutions, battery technology improvements, and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) innovations. 

According to Lavanya Wadgaonkar, Nissan’s corporate vice president of Global Communications, “This survey reaffirms the growing demand for electrification and the need to create more awareness, but long-term success hinges on making EV adoption seamless, practical, and cost-effective.”

The survey findings align with Nissan’s vision of cleaner, safer, and more inclusive mobility solutions. By integrating advanced battery storage, expanding charging infrastructure, and promoting sustainable transportation, Nissan aims to shape a future where EVs become the norm.