MHC Mobility Study: German Company Cars Are Offices on Wheels
This is water on the mills of autonomous driving: According to MHC Mobility, younger employees, in particular, are increasingly open to work opportunities in the car, while older respondents remain hesitant. 69% of 18-29-year-olds consider the possibility of working in the car important. In contrast, only 7% of those over 60 share this view. Ryjan Rutgers, CEO of MHC Mobility Germany, sees a continuing trend here:
"We have been observing a change in work culture for years and the associated changing demands on a company car. Especially the younger generation increasingly sees the car as a flexible workspace. Accordingly, we ensure that our fleet offer always meets the current requirements for equipment and functionality."
Autonomous driving would enable working in the car
The attitude towards mobile working could further change with the introduction of autonomous vehicles. However, skepticism still dominates here: Currently, only 18% of respondents can imagine entering a fully autonomous vehicle without concern. But even here, there are clear age differences: 38% of 18- to 29-year-olds are open to autonomous driving, but only 6% of those over 60. "The societal trend of less sharply separating private life and work is apparently also reflected in the ideas about company cars. With increasing automation of driving, this development could intensify," said Rutgers. He adds:
"The connection or separation of professional and private life is, of course, very individual and can quickly shift with changing life circumstances. As pioneers in long-term rental, we know that a company car is often an important connecting link between the two worlds. Therefore, all our offers enable the greatest possible flexibility in the interest of our customers to meet this individual balance."
High-quality sound systems and streaming options are very important
Despite the growing interest in work opportunities, comfort and entertainment remain central aspects of desired features. One in three wishes for streaming services on rear seat monitors and high-quality surround sound systems. Over 61.8% of respondents consider a stable WiFi connection in the car important to ensure a seamless user experience. Comfort is also a priority: Massage seats and temperature-controlled cup holders are in high demand
In addition, classic comfort features are in demand: massage seats (74.9%), cooling and heating compartments for drinks (69.3%), and air purification systems (69.8%) are among the most requested equipment options.
Pure electric models have lost appeal
Company cars are ideal for experiencing the everyday practicality of e-mobility. The survey also shows interesting results regarding preferred drive types, which defy general expectations: 27% of respondents still prefer combustion engines, another 27% opt for hybrid vehicles, and only 12% favor pure electric vehicles. Ryjan Rutgers sees a connection here to the increasingly negative public reporting:
“These numbers illustrate the discrepancy between the public discourse on e-mobility and the actual preferences of users. Range anxiety is now unfounded. The charging infrastructure in Germany has improved significantly, especially with fast-charging stations. Additionally, battery technology is advancing rapidly.”
E-mobility will still prevail, but it will take time to do so. He adds:
“There is talk of batteries promising ranges of up to 1,000 kilometers. Nevertheless, e-vehicles often remain more expensive than combustion vehicles. The arguments for electric vehicles currently lie mainly in the areas of sustainability and air purification. E-mobility will prevail, but it takes time. Company cars can play an important role, as they offer a risk-free way to experience the everyday practicality of e-cars. We at MHC are very happy to advise here to find the car that optimally meets individual needs.”
What does that mean?
If the significance of the vehicle as a “mobile office” continues - as this study suggests - company car fleets will continue to change constantly as they adapt to the evolving needs of users. Currently, this is the strength of the train: board, open the laptop, and work. If that were also possible in the car, it would be a huge efficiency gain. Although driving can and should also be fun...
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