Own car remains important in Germany, KÜS study shows

The latest KÜS Trend-Tacho survey indicates that owning a private car continues to hold significant importance for most Germans, even with a broader range of options like public transport, car sharing, and electric vehicles available.

According to the study, 40% of respondents found owning a car "extremely important," while 32% described it as "very important." Car ownership is particularly valued by frequent drivers and those living in rural areas. Only a small percentage, 7%, considered their car "less important," and just 1% deemed it "unimportant."

The research highlights that the primary reason for the car's importance is the ability to reach destinations with minimal time expenditure, cited by 80% of respondents. Smartphones are also seen as increasingly indispensable for future mobility, and many participants expressed a desire for traffic relief measures, such as dedicated cycle paths and tunnels.

The survey also uncovered some criticism regarding urban planning's approach to cars. 61% opposed the trend of "banning" cars from city centers, with only 39% in favor. Self-driving vehicles also garnered cautious responses, with just 33% indicating they would favor such a vehicle for themselves.

KÜS CEO Peter Schuler stated that the survey clearly demonstrates the practical advantages of private car ownership for many. He emphasized that regular vehicle inspections remain a crucial element for traffic safety, even as automated driving systems and digital mobility apps evolve.