In the 2021 edition of the ‘Further with Ford’ trends report, Ford examines how society is adapting through the pandemic. The report offers insights into how consumers, communities and businesses are rewriting the rules of living through their workplace settings, social interactions, and consumption habits.

“As we move into 2021 and look forward to a post-pandemic world, it’s clear that the changes brought about by COVID-19 have changed us – but to what degree?” states Sheryl Connelly, Ford Motor Company’s Chief Futurist.

“Ford and other companies are keenly interested to know what changes will stick long after COVID is in our rear-view mirror. And while no one can predict the future, that doesn’t mean we can’t prepare for it.”

As a global average, 69 per cent of individuals agreed that they were overwhelmed by the changes taking place in the world. When asked about their adaption to these changes, 54 per cent of adults reported it was harder than they had imaged. From these figures, the younger generations experienced more difficulty adapting than their older peers, with 63 per cent of responses from Generation Z individuals reporting it was more difficult than expected, compared to the 42 per cent in Baby Boomers.

Despite all the acknowledgment of stress and feelings of being overwhelmed, the report found that people are remarkably resilient, finding innovative and inspiring methods to cope and connect.

50 per cent of adults agree that the pandemic has made their community kinder, 80 per cent believe that their actions can influence positive change in pressing equality gaps, and 60 per cent feel less rushed in life since the pandemic began.

Further to this, the ensuing isolation stemming from the pandemic has highlighted the need for companionship and reshaped the meaning of family. 50 per cent of individuals reported they feel lonely on a regular basis (at least once a week), with 48 per cent stating that the pandemic has made them re-consider where they live.

To remain connected with others, individuals turned to technology. Video, remote connectivity and e-commerce became a central tool. Globally, around 67 per cent of adults suggested that their use of social media had increased during the pandemic.

The pandemic has also caused personal transportation to flourish, as consumers seek out safer methods of travel. As people want security in their environment, bike sales have soared, and car sales have boomed. Globally, 76 per cent of vehicle owners reported they could not imagine a life without having their own automobile and 67 per cent are hopeful about the future of autonomous vehicles.

The results for the Ford Trends report 2021 are based on 13,005 online interviews across 14 countries, conducted under the direction of the Harris Poll. The survey included individuals aged 18 and over, in the following countries: Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Italy, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Spain, United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

View the full ‘Further with Ford 2021’ Trend Report, click here.

Source: Auto Talk | Consumers are resilient and adaptive says Ford Trends Report

22 December 2020