Young drivers have shown significantly more enthusiasm for self-driving technology than older drivers who risk being left behind as the UK moves forward with new developments.
New research has highlighted stark differences in what certain age groups value most in their vehicles, with technology-driven features dominating the priorities of younger generations.
The gap found differences in opinions when it comes to autonomous driving capabilities which are set to revolutionise UK roads.
The UK is currently in the process of implementing new legislation governing self-driving vehicles which could be rolled out as soon as next year.
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Elderly drivers were most hesitant to use self-driving vehicles and viewed it as not a priority when buying a car
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Research found that 62 per centof Gen Z drivers agreed cars should have fully autonomous driving capabilities, compared to just 24 per cent of drivers aged 60 and older.
It also revealed that younger generations place higher value on in-car connectivity features, with 38 per cent of Gen Z and 42 per cent of Millennials prioritising these capabilities.
By comparison, only 10 per cent of older drivers and three per cent of the Silent Generation valued connectivity features in their vehicles.
Technology was a prominent consideration in younger drivers' priorities when purchasing vehicles, with 31 per cent of Gen Z citing it as a top consideration compared to just 10 per cent of drivers aged 60 and above.
The design of vehicles also matters more to younger generations, with 27 per cent of Gen Z prioritising it versus 12 per cent of elderly drivers.
Smart AI assistance was identified by 24 per cent of drivers as a desirable feature in future cars, rising significantly to 46 per cent among Gen Z and 37 per cent among Millennials.
The need for more autonomous technology follows the passing of the Automated Vehicles Act in May last year which aims to secure the safe deployment of self-driving cars on roads by 2027.
Car manufacturers have already started responding to these generational preferences and the need for more smart tech in vehicles with innovative features in their latest models.
Peugeot, for example, has started offering ChatGPT integration on all its latest generation models, fully integrated into the natural voice recognition system.
The brand's new E-3008 and E-5008 come equipped with Level 2 driver assist features including Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Lane Positioning Assist.
Nicola Dobson, Managing Director of Peugeot UK said: "With technology becoming increasingly important to younger drivers, Peugeot is proud to be a tech-forward brand.
"We are committed to developing vehicles that meet modern drivers' expectations and reinforce our position as leaders in technology and electrification."
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Younger drivers showed more engagement over autonomous vehicles and smart car technology
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She added: "We already offer the widest EV line-up of any mainstream European brand, and our models are available with a suite of innovative features such as the Panoramic i-Cockpit, ChatGPT integration and class-leading electric range."
