EV ownership among young urbanites is projected to rise from 23% to over 35% within 10 years.
Emerging cities show stronger enthusiasm, with 44% expecting to drive EVs within five years.
Nearly half of respondents believe new electrification technologies will influence their mobility choices.
A new study commissioned by Nissan and conducted by Economist Impact reveals a significant increase in electric vehicle (EV) ownership preference among young urban residents. The survey, which included 3,750 respondents from 15 global cities, including Toronto, indicates that EV ownership is projected to climb by more than 50% over the next decade.
Currently, 23% of respondents own an EV, a figure expected to exceed 35% within ten years. Enthusiasm is particularly strong in emerging cities, where 44% of respondents anticipate driving EVs within the next five years, compared to 31% in developed cities. Environmental concerns, notably pollution and congestion, are key drivers of this growing interest in electrified mobility.
More than half (57%) of young city dwellers expressed willingness to change their mobility habits to reduce their carbon footprint. However, practical concerns such as battery performance, charging infrastructure, and costs remain major factors influencing EV adoption.
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Respondents in emerging cities were more concerned with EV battery capabilities, while those in developed cities prioritized affordability. The survey highlights that despite a strong push for sustainability, cost and convenience play a significant role in mobility decisions.
The study also found that young urbanites are increasingly aware of the broader potential of EV technology. Over 40% of respondents indicated that innovations such as energy storage, alternative fuels, and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) solutions would influence future mobility choices.
Half of the respondents recognized that EVs can store and supply renewable energy, with some in emerging cities showing interest in their potential for energy-sharing applications, particularly during emergencies.
