“In the car” #17: Generation Z is finally addicted to cars

Dear reader,

The case is settled: the younger generation is not attracted to cars, unlike their parents and grandparents who would not imagine life without one. Generation Z travels by bicycle for daily commutes. On weekends, they take the train or plane. They do not get their driving license. This is undoubtedly somewhat true for residents of large cities. But for those who live in the provinces and the countryside, the car is essential for getting around.

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Between cars and youth, the relationship seems to be one of misunderstanding and missed opportunities. Contrary to what we're led to believe, our young people love cars. Otherwise, how can we explain the large turnout for the third and final edition of the Explorer Grand Prix, organized by French YouTuber Squeezie on the Bugatti circuit in Le Mans? This car race attracted nearly 200,000 spectators. Tickets were snapped up in a few hours online. Broadcast for the first time on television, the race, dubbed "The Last Race," was watched by 1.2 million viewers on France Télévisions. Some programs would like to be able to say the same. Excerpts republished on its social networks allowed public television to gather 14 million views. Similarly, on the streaming platform Twitch, the Explorer GP attracted 1.4 million visitors. The record audience recorded is a true symbol of a craze for automobiles and motorsports. Politicians who spend their days blaming cars should think twice.

Happy reading and safe travels!

Sylvain Reisser