Office on wheels: what the perfect company car for Germans looks like

• Almost 70% of young adults are open to mobile working in the car, older people are skeptical
• Autonomous driving could revolutionise work opportunities - currently only imagined by a few

A recent representative survey of 1,000 German citizens conducted by MHC Mobility reveals an interesting trend: more and more Germans see their company car as a mobile office. Younger employees in particular are increasingly open to work options in the car, while older respondents remain cautious.

69% of 18–29-year-olds consider the ability to work in the car to be important. In contrast, only 7% of over-60s share this view. Ryjan Rutgers, CEO of MHC Mobility Germany, explains: “We have been observing a change in work culture for years and the associated changing demands on a company car. The younger generation increasingly sees the car as a flexible workspace. Accordingly, we ensure that our fleet always meets the latest requirements in terms of equipment and functionality.”

Attitudes towards mobile working could change further with the introduction of autonomous vehicles. At present, however, only 18% of respondents can imagine getting into a fully autonomous vehicle without hesitation. There are also clear age differences here: 38% of 18- 29-year-olds are open to autonomous driving, but only 6% of over-60s.

“The social trend towards less separation between private life and work is obviously also reflected in people's ideas about company cars. This trend could intensify as driving becomes increasingly automated,” says Rutgers. “The connection or separation between work and private life is of course very individual and can shift quickly as life circumstances change. As pioneers of long-term rental, we know that a company car is often an important link between the two worlds. That's why all our offers allow the greatest possible flexibility in the interests of our customers in order to meet this individual balance.”

Despite the growing interest in work options, comfort and entertainment remain key aspects of the desired equipment. One in three would like streaming services on rear seat monitors and high-quality surround sound systems. Over 61.8% of respondents consider a stable Wi-Fi connection in the car to be important in order to ensure a seamless user experience. Classic comfort features are also in demand: massage seats (74.9%), cooling and heating compartments for drinks (69.3%) and air purification systems (69.8%) are among the most desired equipment options.

Company cars are ideal for experiencing the suitability of e-mobility for everyday use

The survey also shows interesting results in terms of preferred drive types, which are contrary to general expectations: 27% of respondents still prefer combustion engines, a further 27% opt for hybrid vehicles and only 12% favour purely electric vehicles.

Ryjan Rutgers comments: “These figures illustrate the discrepancy between the public discourse on e-mobility and the actual preferences of users. The range anxiety is unfounded today. The charging infrastructure in Germany has improved significantly, especially in terms of fast charging stations. In addition, battery technology is developing rapidly. “

He adds: “We are talking about batteries that promise ranges of up to 1000km. Nevertheless, e-vehicles often remain more expensive than combustion engines. The arguments in favor of electric vehicles are currently mainly in the areas of sustainability and air pollution control. E- mobility will catch on, but it will take time. Company cars can play an important role, as they offer a risk-free opportunity to experience the everyday suitability of e-cars. At MHC Mobility, we are happy to advise you on finding the car that best meets your individual needs.”

If the importance of the car as an office on four wheels continues - as this study suggests - company car fleets will continue to change as they have to adapt to the changing needs of users.