How is Gen Z changing the outlook on mobility and fleet management

The arrival of Generation Z in the workforce is accelerating a profound shift in corporate mobility and fleet management, according to the latest findings from the Arval Mobility Observatory. Born into a fully digital world and shaped by growing climate concerns, Gen Z employees are redefining how companies must think about commuting, business travel, and vehicle policies.

Digital natives, high expectations

Gen Z, the first truly digital-native generation, expects seamless, tech-driven experiences across all aspects of life – including mobility. With 27% already using apps to facilitate daily commutes, this cohort instinctively turns to digital platforms for journey planning, payments, and on-demand transport options.

These habits are reshaping expectations for corporate mobility services. Gen Z employees want data-driven, personalised tools that make commuting efficient, flexible, and environmentally conscious. In Europe, 45% of Gen Z respondents said they expect a personalised digital experience when it comes to workplace mobility solutions.

Sustainability drives decision-making

Environmental consciousness is a defining trait for Gen Z, influencing not only personal choices but also workplace expectations. The Arval Mobility Observatory highlights a clear preference for sustainable transport options over traditional car ownership:

• 50% plan to go electric with their next car purchase.
• 63% believe EVs will eventually replace internal combustion engine vehicles altogether.
• 70% would like their employers to offer car-sharing options, while 66% want bike leasing schemes, and 53% seek access to scooter or motorcycle leasing.

For companies, this represents both a challenge and an opportunity: younger employees are less willing to accept outdated commuting models and more likely to favour employers who align with their environmental values.

Changing modal preferences

While cars remain a common mode of transport, private ownership is losing its appeal among younger generations. According to Arval’s research, only 42% of people under 30 primarily use private cars, compared to 49% among 30- to 45-year-olds and 77% among those over 45.

Public transport is growing in importance: 40% of 18- to 24-year-olds already identify it as their main commuting method, far above the 24% average across all employees. Micromobility options such as shared bikes and scooters, along with on-demand services like Uber, are also increasingly favoured.

Corporate mobility as a talent strategy

Mobility policies are becoming a key factor in attracting and retaining talent. According to Arval, 62% of employees consider mobility offerings an important benefit, rising to 72% among those considering a job change. With Gen Z more comfortable switching roles than older generations, companies risk losing talent if they fail to meet these expectations.

Tech-led fleet management

Gen Z’s affinity for technology is pushing fleet operators and mobility providers toward digital innovation. Integrating AI and machine learning into fleet management can improve vehicle allocation, optimise charging schedules for EVs, and enhance predictive maintenance.

Meanwhile, mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) platforms are set to play a growing role, consolidating commuting, business travel, and shared mobility into single, intuitive apps. Such solutions not only improve employee experience but also support companies in achieving ESG targets by reducing carbon emissions.

Looking ahead

With Gen Z expected to make up a significant portion of the workforce within the next decade, their preferences are poised to drive broader industry shifts – from the adoption of electric and autonomous vehicles to the rise of smart city mobility ecosystems.

For HR professionals, fleet managers, and mobility providers, the message is clear: adapting to Gen Z’s expectations isn’t optional. Companies that embrace flexibility, sustainability, and digital-first experiences will gain a competitive edge – both in mobility efficiency and in the race for top talent.