Aumovio Mobility Report Germany Vs. China: Does Automated Driving Provide More Safety?

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German drivers have different needs than Chinese drivers. This is particularly evident in automated driving, as highlighted by the Aumovio Mobility Report. It shows that a one-size-fits-all strategy is not effective for global automotive companies.

Drivers in Germany and China have different expectations for their future vehicles. While new technologies are desired in the Middle Kingdom, safety is the main priority in Germany. This is highlighted by the Mobility Report from the soon-to-be-independent Continental division, Aumovio. As of September 18, 2025, Aumovio will operate as an independent company following its stock market launch. The report is based on data collected by the market and opinion research institute YouGov. Online interviews were conducted with around 1,000 individuals each from Germany and metropolitan regions in China, all of whom hold a driver's license and drive occasionally or regularly.

Safety in Focus

According to the mobility study by the supplier, 58 percent of German drivers consider advanced safety systems an important feature of the car of the future. In comparison, respondents in China show more flexibility in their preferences, with 37 percent highlighting these systems. An electric range of more than 370 miles (44 percent) was the most important feature for them in the vehicle of the future. Half of the German respondents shared this view. Notably, autonomous driving functions are given significantly more importance in China than in Germany, as reflected by the figures of 39 percent and 15 percent, respectively.

Cultural Differences Must Be Taken into Account

"The results of the Aumovio Mobility Report make it clear: a one-size-fits-all strategy is not effective for global automotive companies," explains Philipp von Hirschheydt, CEO of Aumovio, emphasizing, "A differentiated market approach for various regions is key to success. Those operating globally must understand regional expectations and address the respective target groups with new technologies. A successful presence in key international markets, particularly in Germany and China, requires an in-depth and nuanced understanding of the respective customer needs."

This is also confirmed by the survey: 30 percent of Chinese drivers would choose a European car for their next purchase, while 32 percent would opt for a Chinese brand. This demonstrates that European cars remain attractive to Chinese consumers despite many challenges. Although there is some interest in Chinese vehicles in Germany, Chinese cars would not even be considered by a tenth of German drivers as their next vehicle. Currently, more than half of Germans would choose a European car.

Price-Performance Vs. Brand Reputation

The expectations for models from China and Europe differ significantly among respondents. German drivers focus primarily on price when it comes to Chinese cars: according to the study, more than half of German respondents prioritize good value for money and reliable quality. For Chinese drivers, however, brand reputation is of major importance. They also place emphasis on materials and high-quality workmanship. Competitive pricing is only considered a buying criterion by one in five Chinese respondents (22 percent). Germany views Chinese cars mainly through the lens of price-performance and pays little attention to the advanced features for which Chinese cars are known. For Chinese consumers, purchasing a European model is primarily a recognition of the brand's long-standing tradition and proven high quality.

Understanding of Technology Differs Essentially

The acceptance of modern technology is high in both markets. Neither in Germany (63 percent) nor in China (80 percent) do people feel overwhelmed by new vehicle technologies. German drivers consider features like built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates (85 percent), good smartphone integration (66 percent), and driver assistance systems (61 percent) important for their future cars. These features are also appreciated in China, but unlike in Germany, AI-powered voice assistants (71 percent, Germany: 39 percent) and autonomous driving functions (70 percent, Germany: 32 percent) are in higher demand. There are stark differences when it comes to automated driving. 68 percent of Chinese respondents believe that autonomous driving increases safety, compared to only 38 percent in Germany. Evolution versus revolution—the numbers vividly highlight the contrasting approaches to technology in both societies: while German consumers aim to perfect existing technologies, Chinese drivers aspire to elevate the car of tomorrow to a whole new level in many respects. (se)

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