Op-ed By David Liniado
Opinion: Don’t forget consumers on road to autonomous driving
Sunday October 29, 2017
Article Highlights
- While there is much uncertainty around what the future of the auto industry might bring, one thing is glaringly clear: self-driving and electric vehicles are coming.
- New subscription models have also gained prominence recently, with leading manufacturers, such as Porsche, now launching vehicle subscription services.
- As automotive industry leaders, Cox Automotive is constantly exploring new ways to transform the way vehicles are bought, sold, and owned, given the changing needs of the consumer.
While there is much uncertainty around what the future of the auto industry might bring, one thing is glaringly clear: self-driving and electric vehicles are coming. It seems like a daily occurrence that a major car manufacturer announces plans to go all-electric or ramp up development of autonomous technology. However, many companies seem to be forgetting one major factor, which will ultimately drive the speed of the transition to electric and self-driving vehicles — the consumer.
We’re already on the road to autonomous
Both the industry and consumers alike are already on the road to self-driving and electric vehicles. If you’ve ever used any of the ride-sharing apps, such as Uber, Lyft, and Via, then you’re already working to bridge the gap. New subscription models have also gained prominence recently, with leading manufacturers, such as Porsche, now launching vehicle subscription services. Georgia is helping lead the charge in this new model, as Porsche’s pilot program will begin right here in Atlanta.
As automotive industry leaders, Cox Automotive is constantly exploring new ways to transform the way vehicles are bought, sold, and owned, given the changing needs of the consumer. We introduced Flexdrive, an all-inclusive vehicle subscription service that offers a convenient alternative to traditional car ownership, back in 2014.