FREENOW research reveals four in ten car owners anticipate reduced use of private vehicles

New research from Ireland’s leading multi-mobility app FREENOW signals a shift away from private car ownership, with 40% of car owners in Ireland claiming their private car usage will decrease in the next decade. This research coincides with ‘World Car-Free Day’, the aim of which is to encourage motorists to give up their car for a day.

The survey, conducted among over 4,000 participants spanning eight European countries, including Ireland, Austria, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom, revealed insights into evolving transportation preferences.

More than half of those surveyed in Ireland (55%) rely on public transport at least four times a week, demonstrating a preference towards shared mobility solutions. This prevalence of public transport use falls in line with other European counterparts including Italy (55%), and Spain (50%), but slightly higher than the UK (42%). Interestingly, among Irish survey participants who use cars as their primary mode of transport, 35% have a desire to use more public transport in the future. The main barrier to using public transport cited by 61% of respondents is its current unavailability in their local area.

The research also reveals that more than two thirds of Irish people (76%), believe that the future of urban mobility is electric. This aligns with the substantial growth of FREENOW’s electric fleet, which has increased by 40% from the beginning of the year to date. The number of EV trips completed by FREENOW driver partners also saw a significant 61% increase compared to the same period in 2022.

In celebration of World Car-Free Day, FREENOW is encouraging passengers to consider leaving their private vehicles at home on September 22^nd and choosing alternative transport options instead – with 50% discounts available to the first 2,000 passengers who book an ‘Electric taxi’ via the FREENOW app. To participate, passengers can use the promo code FREENOWEV when booking.

Fiona Brady, Head of Operations and Public Affairs for FREENOW Ireland, said:

“At FREENOW, we’re dedicated to offering passengers a wide range of eco-friendly and efficient transport options. Our survey shows that 76% of Irish people believe electric vehicles are the future of city travel, emphasising a shared commitment to reducing pollution and embracing sustainable travel choices.

“As we move forward, passengers in Ireland are considering a mix of transport methods to meet their daily travel needs, and we’re excited to introduce even more options, such as micro-mobility, in the country later this year.

“In a world where making eco-friendly choices is crucial, FREENOW is committed to helping make sustainable transport options more accessible to people across the country. This World Car-Free Day, we encourage more people to consider leaving their cars behind and consider a blend of transport options instead, like public transport, cycling, walking or a taxi.”

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