Rudolf Baumann-Hauser, why do many people hold on to their own car even in old age?
Mobility behaviour in retirement is often shaped by habits from working life. People who have been travelling by car for a long time often find it difficult to switch to other modes of transport. There are other reasons why older people do not want to do without their car. One important factor is health. People with physical disabilities often no longer feel mobile without a car. In rural areas, alternatives such as public transport are often not as well developed, which makes the changeover even more difficult. For some, however, retirement also marks the beginning of a kind of "pleasure phase" in which they consciously treat themselves to something.
And what does that mean?
For example, many opt for a sportier car or buy a motorhome to enjoy trips that they couldn't make in their everyday working life.
Freedom is therefore still often associated with owning your own vehicle.
Yes, exactly. Many people associate a car with the freedom to be spontaneous and independent, without having to rely on timetables or hire vehicles. But for retired people, the question arises as to how relevant this time gain really is, as they no longer have any professional obligations.
Committed to energy, construction, the environment and mobility
Rudolf Baumann-Hauser (75) is a qualified civil engineer with over 50 years of professional experience. As the former head of the energy department of the Canton of Lucerne, independent consultant and coach, he has specialised in the areas of energy, construction, environment and mobility and Today, he advises organisations, companies and interested parties on these topics on a voluntary basis.
Let's turn the question round: What are the main reasons why older people choose not to own a car?
In cities, well-developed public transport and the growing availability of shared mobility services can encourage older people to make the switch. For others, the economic component plays a greater role: If you add up the costs for garage, insurance, maintenance and operation, it quickly becomes clear that having your own car is often a pure luxury. Unfortunately, many people do not realise this.
Mobility has listed the costs: Owning a car costs an average of CHF 10,000 per year.
Is car sharing a real alternative for older people?
That depends very much on your personal attitude. Those who follow the philosophy of "using instead of owning" are generally open to shared mobility - regardless of age.
What specific challenges do you see in the area of shared mobility for older people?
For many, the question of location is certainly central. How far is the nearest car sharing scheme from home? But digital fitness also plays a role: Many of these offers are app-based. This can be a hurdle for older people in particular.
« A key challenge is the charging infrastructure, especially in underground car parks of apartment blocks »
How could this transition be made easier for older people?
A personal sense of achievement is the key. One possibility would be to accompany people in their first experiences with shared mobility.
How do you envisage this?
Confidants could help older people to try out shared mobility services for the first time. They could answer questions, help with the use of the apps and test the services together. Positive first experiences are an incredibly powerful way of breaking down inhibitions. However, this introduction to shared mobility does not have to be the sole responsibility of the providers.
How do you mean?
Politicians and public administrations also have a role to play. If we want car-free city centres and have the goal of getting older people to switch to alternative forms of mobility, we need to raise awareness and provide training. This could be done in collaboration with senior citizens' associations and other relevant institutions - ideally in cooperation with the providers of shared mobility services.
Let's talk about electromobility. Where do you see the biggest challenges and how will the situation develop?
A key challenge is the charging infrastructure, especially in underground car parks of apartment blocks. There is still a lot of room for improvement here, but a lot will happen in the next five to ten years. In addition, electric cars are still expensive, but cheaper models - especially from China - will change this and the second-hand market for electric vehicles will also continue to develop .
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