Fuel efficiency now tops the car purchasing criteria charts, according to KPMG research.
The Global Automotive Executive Survey 2015 revealed that only a minority of respondents considered alternative powertrain technologies, mobility services and vehicle connectivity as extremely important key trends until 2025.
Whilst all age groups will consider vehicle ownership important up to 2020, according to the report, fuel efficiency is rated the number one purchasing criterion, followed by safety and comfort. Since last year's survey, enhanced vehicle lifespan has become more important, considered by KPMG to most likely result from recent product recalls.
Established and emerging markets are expected to see a high growth in the small and basic car segment over the next five years, particularly in the BRIC market, although these countries expect to see huge growth in all car size segments.
Traditional fossil fuel-based propulsion technologies are considered to dominate with downsizing still the primary area for investment in powertrain technology during the next five years. Self-driving cars are viewed with a greater degree of scepticism in Western Europe, North America and China.
Most auto execs believe that original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) will continue to own the customer relationship up to 2020 although, since 2014, diversification and cooperation with converging industries are seen as necessary by more respondents. The likes of BMW, Volkswagen and Toyota see remaining independent as the top priority.
The report forecasts that traditional OEMs will maintain their dominance in the medium term but suggests that the future may be disruptive for them.