Premium factor – Analyzing usage of premium cars compared to conventional cars

Abstract Car use is affected by various factors (e.g. spatial structures). As a result, the potential for new mobility services and propulsion technologies is perceived to be different depending on these factors. For this purpose, it is necessary to holistically observe the use of cars by all occupants. This comparative study investigates an important factor that can differentiate car use: the premium factor. To address this issue, a sensor data based sample of premium car usage in Germany and California in May 2018 was used. This was compared with a car usage model form survey data to generate detailed car trip profiles from conventional cars in Germany and California over the course of one year. Premium cars are produced by premium Original Equipment Manufacturer (Audi, BMW, Mercedes or Tesla). Conventional cars include all vehicles independent from the brand in a representative population. Specific premium characteristics were identified, such as more frequent long-distance travel, the higher frequency of car use and a very broad car usage with no link to specific purposes. New mobility services and propulsion technologies, premium provider should offer their cars with an extended radius and extended electric range. Furthermore, a universal usability of premium cars should be guaranteed.