With automakers prioritizing connectivity and exploring new ways to generate revenue after the point of sale, consumers are becoming more interested in the ability to purchase items or services directly from a vehicle’s center infotainment screen. This feature isn’t necessarily “new.” Over the past decade, automakers have tried testing the waters with in-vehicle marketplaces but to the reception of little actual interest among consumers. However, recent breakthroughs in screen sizes and intuitive software with over-the-air updates, and a booming e-commerce scene have prompted automakers to give this feature another go. AutoPacific research has seen demand for the ability to purchase products, technologies, and vehicle upgrades directly from a center infotainment screen grow by 8% pts YoY. We predict that figure to continue to rise.

Current public charging stations for electric vehicles are far from meeting consumer wants and expectations. According to data from AutoPacific’s recent EV Consumer Insights Study, future EV consumers have a long list of charging station attributes that are important to them. From easy-to-see and read charging speed and pricing signage to offering additional basic vehicle care services like windshield cleaner, air pumps for filling tires, and vacuums, future EV consumers would like a public charging experience that more closely mirrors traditional gasoline fueling stations.

AutoPacific’s recent trip to CES 2024, perhaps the largest and most significant showcase for breakthrough technologies in the world, shed light on the future for several features included in the market research and consulting firm’s annual Future Attribute Demand Study (FADS). Our annual survey of over 11,700 new vehicle intenders measures demand for 138 vehicle features and technologies, many of which are soon-to-be, or very newly available on select vehicles sold in the U.S.