Interest in car ownership to fall

The number of motorists keen to own their car has been predicted to fall in the coming years, reports BBC News.

Business reporter Jorn Madslien described how this is one of several forecasts in a new KPMG survey of global car company executives, with other key issues being the way automobiles are powered and how connected they are technologically.

The document stated: "The world is moving from car ownership to car usership." This emphasis on temporary use of vehicles could inspire more interest in business car hire and alternative rental options.

Mathieu Meyer, global head of automotive at KPMG, reflected that it will prompt brands to reassess their position, saying: "Automotive executives have plenty to think about as they navigate the new urban landscape and determine the role their company plays."

UK head of automotive at the company John Leech suggested that internet and GPS connectivity look likely to become an "intrinsic" part of the car, rather than a bonus feature.

Autoblog claimed the same KPMG report offered a mixed message in relation to electric cars; forecasting them to enjoy increased interest, but also saying it will be 2025 at least before such vehicles make up 15 per cent of global sales.

In terms of cutting CO2 emissions, 61 per cent of executives questioned said that the current energy mix means that the optimisation of internal combustion engines is the most effective approach.