Consumer perceptions across Asia Pacific towards the safety of autonomous vehicles has improved significantly over the last year. But, a certain crowd is still skeptical about original equipment manufacturers’ (OEMs) ability to deliver autonomous vehicle (AV) technology. The study draws Asia Pacific perspectives from the 2018 Global Automotive Consumer Study which was released earlier this year.

The study delves into the consumer expectations that are shaping the automotive sector in the Asia Pacific market. It talks about how this changing consumer behavior can bring about new opportunities for OEMs and dealers.

Key findings:

• Seventy-four percent of consumers in China feel fully autonomous vehicles will be safe, compared to only 38 percent in 2017.
• Most consumers across Asia Pacific start researching a vehicle three to six months before purchase.
• Consumers in China and South Korea place their trust in new companies with expertise in autonomous vehicle technologies.
• In China, 61percent of consumers would prefer a hybrid-electric, battery-electric or another form of alternative powertrain in their next vehicle as compared to 48 percent in Japan. Only Southeast Asia and South Korea are bucking the trend, as fewer consumers are looking for alternative powertrains in their next vehicle.
• Thirty-six percent of consumers in Asia Pacific were never contacted by the auto manufacturer post vehicle purchase.