According to a study by Ipsos conducted for the Paris Motor Show, nearly 91% of people surveyed in France own at least one vehicle in their household, and 94% believe it gives them freedom and independence. The research shows that, even with challenges like climate change, new transportation options, and financial pressures, the car remains a central part of daily life for many French people. Over eight in ten respondents said they couldn’t live without a car, and the average distance between home and work has increased from 10.6 kilometers in 2008 to 12.5 kilometers in 2019, according to INSEE, France’s national statistics office. For 64% of respondents, owning a car brings pleasure, and nearly half have developed an emotional connection to their vehicles. This dependence is especially strong among working-age individuals, aged 25 to 55, with almost half using their car for more than half of their professional travel. However, the priorities for buying a car have changed in recent years. Practical concerns now dominate over emotional ones. Safety is the top priority for 93% of respondents, followed closely by the cost of use (91%) and comfort or interior space (88%). In contrast, factors like performance, equipment, and environmental impact are seen as less important now than in the past, when price was the main consideration for buyers in 2024. Despite the shift toward more practical decision-making, the car still holds symbolic value for many. Nearly half of the respondents view their car as a sign of social success. This symbolic importance is strongest among the youngest group, with 84% of those aged 16 to 24 saying they would want to own a high-end car if they could afford it, compared to 65% of those aged 25 to 55 and only 41% of those over 55. As people age, their desire for luxury vehicles tends to decrease. The study also shows that auto shows remain important in the car-buying process, even as digital tools become more common. Among those interested in such events, 91% see them as a place to discover new innovations, 86% enjoy the experience of automotive passion, and 84% like the chance to test new models in person. For two-thirds of respondents, attending these events is an important part of planning for a future car purchase. Overall, the study suggests that the French relationship with cars is evolving, not disappearing. While the car continues to be essential for daily life and personal freedom, economic pressures have led to more rational decision-making when purchasing. Safety, cost of use, and comfort have become key factors, reflecting a shift toward practicality in a changing world.