Summary:
Contrary to past concerns, younger drivers are not losing interest in driving—they’re simply entering the market later. According to Todd Campau, associate director at S&P Global Mobility, more individuals aged 35–44 are now purchasing vehicles, often driven by life events such as starting families or securing stable employment. While owning a car may no longer be a coming-of-age milestone at 16, younger adults are still embracing vehicle ownership as they age.
Campau, speaking at the AAPEX event during his presentation on “Trends in the Aftermarket,” highlighted that this shift in timing doesn’t signal disinterest but rather a generational delay. As Gen Z drivers become more prominent, he anticipates changes in consumer preferences that could impact the types of vehicles, accessories, and features they seek—potentially reshaping market demand. Still, this evolving demographic is a positive sign for the automotive industry’s future.
Additionally, Campau reported that vehicle miles traveled (VMT) have remained steady despite earlier projections of decline in 2023. Looking ahead, VMT is expected to hit record levels, reaching approximately 13,000 miles per light vehicle annually—totaling around 3.7 trillion miles on U.S. roads. He stressed that vehicle usage, not just ownership or age, is a crucial indicator of the industry’s health. Increased and shifting traffic patterns, despite changes in rush-hour norms, continue to support the vitality of the automotive aftermarket.
Auto Service World
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