Climate concerns are reshaping the ways that brands operate across sectors. In the auto industry, this has manifested in the adoption of hybrid and electric drivetrains – but how else can manufacturers tap into eco sentiments? And how are luxury brands making green machines more appealing?

With COVID-19 creating concerns around using public transport, people are taking comfort in the safety offered by their cars. Offering a reliable way not just to travel, but also to socialize, relax, explore, and take part in fun activities, the car’s role in everyday life is changing.

Uber has launched the trial of a car rental service called Uber Rent in Washington, DC, which offers door-to-door valet service as an extra service on top of facilitating rentals via existing providers. Even as vehicle ownership declines, people are still interested in having flexible access to cars.

As COVID-19 forces the closure of car dealerships and potential buyers spend more of their time online, the auto industry is recognising a need to modernise. But are people ready to purchase vehicles as they would clothes or books? And how can car brands deliver high-quality service digitally?