Research suggests that young consumers will increasingly lean more towards new mobility options rather than personal vehicle ownership. Those that do drive however are more inclined to accessorize their cars, according to a 2018 SEMA Young Accessorizers Report.
The report reveals that drivers between 16-24 years old actually care about their cars and driving. In fact, of the 24 million U.S. drivers in this age group approximately 8 million accessorize their vehicle each year. As a group, they also spent $7.2 billion modifying their cars in 2017. Many of them (66 per cent) purchased the parts in-store, and 52 per cent plan to make additional modifications to their vehicle within the next year.
SEMA’s report also says brick and mortar is still key for auto parts retail. “Although online is important to young accessorizers, in-store is still the preferred way to purchase and pick-up parts,” according to the report. “Shoppers benefit from being able to touch and feel the actual products.”
If forced to choose between giving up their smartphone or their car for a week, 58 per cent of these young drivers would choose to relinquish their phone. This is because modifying a vehicle is considered to be an exciting creative outlet for these consumers. It also gives them something to talk about with their friends.
“Social life is very important to young people, and 4 out of 5 (young drivers) say that their car helps bring them closer to their friends,” said SEMA in a news release. Their 75-page report also includes information on “how to reach young accessorizers, parts they purchase and how their car fits in their social life.”
To download the report, click here.
