Automotive
Automotive & Mobility ideas and innovation researched by Piers Fawkes and the PSFK team.
Latest analysis of Automotive sector
December 2023
The automotive industry is witnessing several prominent trends that are shaping the future of mobility. One key trend is the integration of technology and connectivity into vehicles, enhancing user experiences through innovations such as smart glasses, AI-powered music experiences, and smart charging stations.
Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on simulating traditional automotive experiences in electric vehicles, providing users with familiar sensations through simulated engine sounds and display technologies. The industry also embraces heritage-inspired design, incorporating classic elements into modern aesthetics to evoke nostalgia and celebrate brand history.
Sustainability is another important trend, with a focus on low-emission transportation options like e-bikes and vehicle-to-grid technology. As the industry shifts towards electric mobility, it explores innovative features such as electric vehicles that can power homes during outages or include unique amenities like a built-in shower.
Moreover, personalization and tailored experiences are gaining importance, with smartphone apps enabling control over vehicle functions and immersive experiences capturing individual preferences.
These trends collectively reflect the industry's commitment to enhancing customer experiences, adopting sustainable solutions, and integrating advanced technologies into its offerings.
Latest Automotive & Mobility Case Studies
In this automotive and mobility newsletter, we cover a variety of trending themes in the industry. These include technology integration, customization, sustainable transportation, urban mobility solutions, and innovative marketing approaches.
Quote of Note
"In terms of the battery swapping, the way we look at it is a bit similar to the cloud service or the cloud infrastructure. Both power swap stations and cloud infrastructure require and rely on the network effect. Both can have a pretty long investment cycle. And both actually started with the internal services first. And after sufficient validations and verifying the demands and the fulfillment for our users’ needs, we will then open up the service to the public. So after five years of validation and internal services, we believe that we are ready to provide such a network and a service to the industry."
William Li, CEO, NIO
Macro Analysis of Market Data
At a high level, it seems that there is a growing interest and demand for electric vehicles, with countries pushing for a transition away from fossil fuel-run vehicles. Chinese car brands are also making efforts to enter and compete in the European market, with a focus on advanced battery technology and competitive pricing.
However, there are still concerns and hesitations around the adoption of driverless cars, with many Americans feeling unsafe and opposing their operation in their towns. In terms of retail, there is a growing focus on offering experiential options for consumers, and influencer content continues to play a significant role in consumer purchasing decisions.