With the pandemic causing remote working to become the norm for millions of people, the commute has undergone a dramatic overhaul. Once a daily bugbear, it’s become non-existent for some, leading to blurred work-life boundaries. In turn, Microsoft created a 

 function for Teams to reinstate that ritual buffer between the office and the home. Meanwhile, those who continue to travel to work are opting for micro-mobility options over crowded trains – from eco-friendly 

 that can be folded up and easily carried. In New York, 

 are taking off among HNWIs, meeting their demands for privacy and efficiency.

 in the UK said they’d be less likely to use it once the first lockdown ended. But many have no other options. Addressing these concerns, Google Maps is integrating government guidance and peak times in its app to reassure travellers. In London, the 

app was launched to help people plan quiet, socially-distanced journeys through the city. And in India, 

aims to supplement an overwhelmed public transport system, positioning electric motorcycles as a solution to congestion and poor air quality.

Neighbourliness isn’t typically associated with city living, but by restricting people’s movements, COVID-19 has made communities more tight-knit. With a newfound appreciation for local areas, urbanites are pushing for better living conditions on their doorstep – from less pollution and traffic to more targeted mobility. Oakland’s 

 campaign closed 10% of the city to traffic, making more space for pedestrians, cyclists, and outdoor activities. The 

, a design concept prioritising hyperlocality, has also gained traction as people call for essential facilities to be within easy reach. But who’s to say what the ‘new normal’ holds. Seeking permanent peace, 

of Britons say the pandemic has made them more likely to consider moving to the countryside.

As the UK emerges from COVID-19 lockdown, public transport capacity is set to be severely limited to reduce the risk of further infection. But is a surge in private car journeys inevitable? Or could the post-pandemic world present a new opportunity to encourage greener, healthier commutes?

Could COVID-19 pave the way for a greener commute?

The pandemic has transformed people’s needs and expectations of social spaces. The city of Oakland, in California, has launched Slow Streets, which reduces traffic to enable physically distanced activities and exercise. Can other cities use this moment to create safer, greener landscapes?

Slow Streets: re-imagining mobility in Oakland

NEOM, an ambitious development that embodies Saudi Arabia's bold vision for the future, is forcing FIFA into a leap of faith for the 2034 World Cup. As the experience economy shifts, brands worldwide are redefining their offerings to cater to the growing demand for multidimensional experiences.

FIFA goes futuristic in 2034 World Cup host announcement

When stretched for time, people tend to prioritise convenience above all else. Tapping into this – and building towards its goal of becoming an all-in-one shopping destination – Amazon has rolled online car sales, enabling people to buy a new car alongside their groceries or seasonal gifts.

Amazon courts convenience-seekers with car sales

Courier company Evri has enlisted inclusive tech provider AccessiBe to optimise its website for people with disabilities. It shows how brands can make a difference by foregrounding the micro-moments that are often taken for granted and enabling a sense of autonomy in people’s product experiences.

Evri makes parcel deliveries more accessible for Britons

Avanti West Coast has launched a low-alcohol beer, responding to the rise in alcohol-induced accidents over the festive period. People are increasingly seeking moderation and brand responsibility, but the move raises the question of how far companies should be involved in drinkers' personal choices.

UK train company launches low-abv beer for festive safety

As the fashion and automotive worlds collide, luxury streetwear brands Kith and Aimé Leon Dore are leading a transformation of classic BMW and Porsche models. This reflects a broader shift as cars become style statements, speaking to Gen Z's focus on cultural relevance over traditional car culture.

Gen Z drivers seek cultural relevance from car brands

Sicily is offering a low-cost sleeper train to ensure a wider variety of Sicilians can afford to go home and visit family during the winter season. But as slow travel grows in popularity, there’s a gap in affordable travel and a need for brands to ensure greater accessibility.

Sicily tackles traveller costs with affordable trains

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, in collaboration with Keep Left, has launched a pop-up activation called ‘Blackout Friday’ to highlight the challenges faced by people with low vision or blindness when shopping online, emphasising that accessibility is just as much of an issue digitally as it is IRL.

Guide Dogs NSW highlights retail accessibility problems 

Brazil’s first flying car is one step closer to certification as aviation authorities set the legal groundwork for these vehicles to take flight in the nation's airspace. The decision marks a major advancement in urban transportation and is reflective of emergent tendencies for maximalist living.

Flying cars prepare to take off in Brazil

Paris has outlined plans to create a greener, climate-proofed city by 2030. As extreme weather conditions become more of a certainty than a likelihood, there is a growing sense of urgency from both citizens and governments to reduce carbon emissions and plan for a climate-changed future.

Paris reveals ambitious plan to combat climate concerns

Due to traffic congestion, rising petrol prices, and pollution, people want sustainable and efficient modes of transportation. In India, Yulu is leading the change with tech-based EVs that reduce pollution and make it easy for people to travel short distances between public transport hubs.

Why Yulu forwards green biking habits to urban Indians

A strategic partnership between leading cycling brands in China marks a shift in the country's evolving bike market. As the adoption of cycling as an everyday mode of transport grows among families with young children, bikes focused less on play and more on performance are on the rise.

Partnership brings performance to young bikers in China

Luxury travellers have a new and exclusive way to experience Italy with the launch of the Orient Express’ La Dolce Vita sleeper trains. The revival of the once-defunct brand highlights the continued demand for luxury travel experiences, even as sales of high-end goods slump.

The Orient Express launches first new route in decades

Istanbul is offering free public transport to job seekers in the hope of addressing unemployment and rising costs. With cities and countries globally implementing innovative mobility solutions, these initiatives highlight a trend towards more accessible and affordable public transportation.

Istanbul introduces free public transit for job hunters 

Enterprise Flex-E-Rent has recruited a new cohort of 15 apprentices in the UK and Ireland to join its two-year HGV mechanic or panel beater apprentice programme. As people seek alternative career trajectories, brands are providing training and development to become part of a skilled workforce.

HGV apprenticeship programme supports practical careers

Aussies are keen on experiential travel experiences, with many consciously choosing destinations and activities with communal benefits. As people increasingly prioritise authentic connections, there's an opportunity for brands to create offerings that foster social interaction and shared moments.

Australians value community-led and experiential travel

Prada and Axiom Space have unveiled a space suit that combines high fashion expertise with advanced tech. As people show interest in unique, futuristic experiences that blend aesthetics with functionality, luxury brands can leverage cross-industry collaborations to make waves.

Prada goes to space with high-tech moon suit design

Passenger numbers are almost back to pre-pandemic levels, but the airline sector is still battling cancellations and delays. Here’s how United Airlines is using technology to boost transparency, personalize its offerings, and improve customer experience even in the face of disruptions.

How United Airlines uses new tech to put travelers first

Ride-hailing platform Grab is updating the safety measures on its app to include an audio recording feature. As people confront traditional expectations of car ownership, brands have the opportunity to emphasise the value of technology and advanced tools in ensuring that road journeys are safer.

Grab enhances safety measures with in-app audio feature

Searching for the right car can be a stressful, daunting experience. But for overwhelmed drivers in the United Kingdom, Auto Trader is helping them make sense of the car-buying process through trust, transparency, knowledge sharing and convenience with benefits for both people and dealerships.

How Auto Trader helps British drivers buy smarter

As Americans are increasingly traveling longer distances to get to work, transport choices are becoming integral to their lifestyles. Canvas8 spoke to eight people across the US about their habits, challenges and priorities when considering EVs, carpooling, and public transit.

What do Americans want from their transport choices?

While Britons often turn to buses and trains as eco-options, they’re increasingly unhappy about rising costs and unreliable services – especially outside major cities. Canvas8 spoke to seven people across the UK to find out what's dictating their mobility choices.

What do Britons want from their transport choices?

Train travel may be on the up, but so are rail journeys from hell. The disruptions and cancellations are only half the battle for disabled passengers. Avanti West Coast is one operator modernising the customer experience with both innovative and inclusive features to upgrade UK rail.

How Avanti makes way for personalised access on UK rails

Filipino commuters are turning to e-trikes as a way to avoid high levels of traffic congestion. With metropolitan transport in a state of crisis, people are looking for more efficient ways to get around, and new micro-mobility solutions are emerging to answer this demand.

Filipinos hack the commute with electric three-wheelers

What do people want from their car purchasing journeys? What are the key initiatives driving inclusion in the sector? How are people hacking transport systems for their immediate needs? Why is the desire for self-expression finding its way into mobility and transport choices?

Getting Around Sector Snapshot: September 2024

While convenience, practicality, and affordability have always been at the heart of transportation choices, people are becoming more aware of the cultural factors at play. From their values to fandoms to subcultures, people want to be emotionally and intellectually connected to the ways they get around.

Express-ways

People are becoming more aware that getting around is a question of equity and accessibility as well as convenience. They want equal access and comfort for different demographics both on the road and in public transport. With inclusivity historically being a low priority in transport systems, new initiatives are emerging to fill the gap.

Democratised Destinations

Not only are public transport systems worldwide under pressure but people's needs and lifestyles are also changing rapidly. As transport infrastructure can be slow moving, users do not always feel supported. Seeking a way to move around that suits them, many are looking for shortcuts to the system.

Hacking Mobility

With economic instability and an abundance of choices in the automotive sector, people want to have a slower, more considered, and transparent process when buying a car. Carefully deliberating over choices is paramount to ensure they get a vehicle that suits their needs.

Considered Choices

Zoomcar has launched a partnership with Mappls MapmyIndia to integrate its cars with AI-driven map technology. As people seek ways to make their journeys smoother, brands can utilise the power of new technologies to enhance the travel planning process and make public transport accessible to all.

Zoomcar and Mappls enhance road travel in India

Renault has released the R17, a concept electric vehicle based on the 1971 Renault 17. With EV adoption facing challenges around the world, a number of auto manufacturers are blending nostalgia and sustainability by bringing retro-inspired designs to the electric vehicle market.

Renault concept EV blends nostalgia and sustainability

Tesla has launched the all-electric Giga Train in Germany, providing free rides between Erkner Station and Tesla Sud for employees and the public. This sustainable transit initiative emphasises the rising appeal and accessibility of greener transportation to a broader audience.

Tesla unveils first all-electric train in Germany

Trainline is transforming European rail travel by making it more affordable, culturally engaging and aligned with the growing demands for ‘slow travel’. Through innovative technology and strategic partnerships, the platform enhances accessibility and sustainability.

How Trainline accelerates Britons’ love for slow travel

Uber is trying everything in India – from flexible pricing and cheaper two-wheeler alternatives to switching to electric vehicles. The company achieved a goal of reaching a million drivers this year, but is this enough to keep pace and fend off competition in a robustly evolving mobility market?

How Uber keeps pace with India’s need for dynamic mobility

Once the undisputed ruler of the electric vehicle market, Tesla now faces intense competition and changing preferences. How is it adapting its strategies to maintain leadership? And can a combination of family-friendly vehicles and AI innovation counter ambivalence towards the brand’s founder?

How Tesla is targeting accessibility to stay relevant

Is car ownership a thing of the past? Are driverless cars the future of shared mobility? How will extreme weather impact public transport? In this chapter of Expert Outlook 2025, we speak to three experts about how technological, social, and environmental shifts are set to impact travel next year.

2025 Expert Outlook on Getting Around

British luxury carmaker Aston Martin has ventured into the world of fashion through a collaboration with BOSS. The partnership takes cues from the worlds of motorsport and premium apparel, courting existing luxury audiences who are shopping in alternative product categories.

Aston Martin x BOSS courts cross-category shoppers

Tesla's 'Dog Mode' was designed to offer in-car pet care during hotter months. However, the feature has come under scrutiny, with tests finding inconsistencies and reports of glitches during the summer season. As people look for pet support, trust in tailored offerings is central.

Tesla’s 'Dog Mode' glitch challenges automated car care

A report published by the EAFO has revealed widespread interest in electric vehicles. However, people are concerned with charging infrastructure, providing brands in the auto space with an opportunity to meet audience needs and boost brand salience through charging networks.

EAFO report flags up ongoing EV charging challenges

Lime is entering Japan’s growing e-scooter market, competing against homegrown startup Luup. Even as uptake has slowed among other countries, Japan’s micromobility market is expanding, with companies having to adhere to strict governmental regulations that address safety concerns. 

Lime e-scooters enter the Japanese micromobility market

The EU has announced plans to reduce tariffs on Tesla EVs made in China while maintaining higher tariffs on other Chinese EVs. According to ING, this risks slowing the push to net zero, pointing to the complex relationship between people’s financial concerns, desire for convenience and ethics.

Fluctuating EV cost in Europe reveals dwindling interest

Melbourne has become the latest major city to ban e-scooters, citing frequent resident complaints about safety and cleanliness as reasons. Despite the controversy, there's still a need for micromobility solutions and infrastructure that make sense for city life. 

Tensions rise between mobility hackers and city halls

Waymo has announced plans to begin testing fully autonomous vehicles on freeways in San Francisco in August of 2024, pointing to a growing normalization of driverless cars. As more driverless vehicles begin to fill roads, it remains to be seen whether more drivers will adopt the technology.

Waymo expands driverless cars to San Fran freeways

Southwest Airlines is teaming up with ten content creators to appeal to Gen Z shoppers on social media. As young people increasingly rely on social media for purchase decisions, they want brands to partner with creators who can authentically represent their products beyond the price tag.

Southwest Airlines sets sights on Gen Z social shoppers

NIU, a Chinese luxe e-scooter brand, is speeding ahead of the market with its award-winning designs. With e-scooters becoming popular to both the eco- and cost-conscious, NIU proves that safety and the ability to customise are key in courting new scooter fans – especially Gen Z.

How NIU scooters drive personalised eco-travel in China

With about 663,000 Australians confronting mobility challenges, the Australian wayfinding app BindiMaps answers to those with accessibility needs by navigating indoor spaces. Inclusivity-driven, it deepens customer convenience by providing built-in accessible text, audio, maps, routes, and more.

How BindiMaps helps Aussies find ways to public autonomy

Offering a compelling combination of space, technology, and fuel efficiency, the Ford Puma is thriving among cost-conscious Britons. With many people purchasing based on practicality and affordability, the SUV’s dominance highlights the importance of understanding the needs of the everyday driver.

How utility drives the success of the Ford Puma in Britain

A Mercedes partnership will add DC fast chargers to 100 Starbucks along Interstate 5, the main north-south highway on America's west coast. As EVs transform how we 'refuel', people will seek new ways to spend charging time, turning brief gas station stops into longer, more meaningful experiences.

Mercedes-Benz and Starbucks expand EV charging network

HNWIs are looking for heightened levels of luxury throughout their purchasing journey. Offering them slower and more indulgent in-person experiences has become key to winning them over. Tapping into this and pivoting further upmarket, Jaguar has opened the first of its boutique stores.

Jaguar stores tap HNWIs' love of slow experiences

Jaguar is planning to end its production of petrol and diesel vehicles and move to an all-electric line-up. It will replace its old models with new ones with improved technology and design, providing high-quality, sustainable transport options that seek to ease concerns around EVs' performance.

Jaguar prepares for a new all-electric era

The EV brand Zeekr has been edging out Tesla in the brand’s home turf of China, thanks to its focus on sleek modernity and efficiency. Zeekr’s rapid output and practical functionality deliver new features to Chinese car-seekers that simultaneously drive patriotic purchases and the local workforce.

How Zeekr shifts the EV gear toward Chinese identity

Citroën’s new campaign shows revolutionaries stealing ë-C3s from an aristocratic 18th-century party to drive home the message that 'Electric is no longer for the elite'. With the cost of living influencing eco priorities, Citroën is aiming to offer a new narrative around environmental purchases.

Citroën uses a revolutionary message to promote ë-C3s

Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli has partnered with UNESCO to promote ocean conservation at the 37th America's Cup. This collaboration highlights people's increasing expectations for brands and sports to protect the environment and raise awareness about marine protection issues.

Luna Rossa Prada becomes UNESCO's ocean ambassador

Australians in urban centres spend approximately an hour commuting daily, depending on which major city they live in. With the rise in the cost of living, changes in hybrid working options, and emphasis on ‘greener’ commuting choices, how and how long people commute daily is evolving.

Australian public transport faces a crisis – how are Aussies coping?

Even though most cities have textured sidewalks to help blind individuals navigate the busy streets, they lack one thing – indicators for businesses and services so that navigators know what shop they're at. But in Peru, this is changing with SightWalks, which gives greater autonomy to blind people.

SightWalks offer simple inclusivity with tactile tiles

Lowriding has a rich history in the United States but is a sector traditionally dominated by men, with women often relegated to being passengers or handling admin roles in lowriding car clubs. But Latine women are shaking up lowrider culture, establishing their presence at the forefront of the scene.

Who are the new female Latine lowriders?

Increasingly, young people are opting for convenience and efficiency in their transport, and the app Hiyacar provides the perfect solution. By enabling people to rent out private vehicles, the start-up leverages the sharing economy to offer personal transport for Britons with car commitment issues. 

How HiyaCar found new routes to car ownership in the UK

Bentley Motors epitomises British luxury, blending heritage with innovation to thrive in a changing world. Through hyper-personalisation and exclusive brand offerings, it has maintained its positioning at the forefront of luxury motoring despite worldwide economic uncertainty.

How Bentley drives hyper-personalisation for HNWIs

Car buying is becoming increasingly unaffordable for Gen Zers, particularly for those without help from the bank of Mum and Dad. As this group grows disenfranchised, there is fertile scope for brands to serve the needs of this group, inviting them back into the conversation.

What Gen Zers want from their car shopping experience

The number of EV chargers in California is slowly catching up to the number of gas stations, pointing to a turning point for a major barrier to EV adoption. While charging infrastructure is improving, consumers are still looking for innovation to help make EV charging frictionless and efficient.

California's EV chargers point to mass adoption

With a growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs), more people are opting for used EVs to combat higher prices. But what other factors are encouraging consumers to purchase pre-owned EVs? And how can brands further tap into buyers who are looking to go electric at an affordable price?

What’s encouraging people to buy pre-owned battery EVs?

Lack of funds and mishandling of public infrastructure have led to the privatisation of beaches in Lagos, Nigeria. As global warming and the climate crisis intensify, brands have an opportunity to tackle environmental issues and appeal to consumers who want to take breaks in nature.

Beaches in Lagos are being privatised

Electric vehicles are becoming a popular, greener alternative to gas-powered cars. But even with falling prices, tax incentives, and carmakers reaching entry-level buyers, barriers to mass adoption persist. How are brands and government incentives encouraging American drivers to switch to EVs?

What are the challenges faced by American EV buyers?

Ultra-low-cost carriers offer a no-frills experience at very low fares and charge mercilessly for ancillary services. With consumers more willing to splurge on travel, demand for premium cabins has gone up. How can budget airlines keep up when people increasingly see travel as an indulgent treat?

How can budget airlines win back value-conscious travelers?

Climate change is a leading issue and the UK government has committed to a net zero emissions pledge by 2050. To reach it, voters must also take action and need political parties to support them. But in economically unstable times, how can political parties mobilise Gen Z voters?

How do UK voters feel about climate policy?

As part of an attempt to change China’s title as the world’s biggest polluter and bridge the say-do gap in EV adoption, homegrown brands are working double time to make innovation as accessible as possible. BYD rises to the top of this list, overtaking Tesla’s dominance in the eco-driving market.

How BYD speeds up Chinese drivers’ access to green vehicles

Getting Around

Urban residents are sticking to their neighbourhoods

COVID-19 saw the hustle and bustle of city life grind to a halt, sparking fears of job losses and a financial downturn. Yet many people welcomed the slower pace of life. From embracing a commute-free work day to getting better acquainted with their neighbourhood, urbanites are switching gears and staying closer to home.

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