Category: Transport

Luiss Business School’s research proposes new classification systems to guide consumers through the hybrid vehicle jungle

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Over 7 million seats to and from Italy for the 2025-2026 winter season, with new connections to Egypt, France and Northern Lights adventures

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In May 2025, the car market in Italy remains flat, but the ecological transition struggles to gain speed. UNRAE sounds the alarm and calls for immediate reforms

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According to UNRAE, the Italian used car market grew by 3.8% in March 2025. Hybrids, plug-ins and EVs continue to gain ground, while diesel loses share and younger cars increase their presence.

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Registrations of trailers and semi-trailers soar by +26.1% in April, yet UNRAE urges the Government to act swiftly for road safety and fleet renewal

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Old vehicles and high CO₂ emissions keep Italy behind EU targets. UNRAE calls for urgent reforms to revive the sector

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Women are gaining ground in the automotive market

Women are redefining the landscape of the Italian car market. According to the latest UNRAE analysis, in 2024, women accounted for 41.7% of new car registrations, up from 40.6% in 2023. In the used car market, female presence continues to grow, reaching 39%.

Geographically, Central Italy stands out for a higher incidence of female purchases compared to other areas of the country. This growth highlights a shift in mobility habits and purchasing choices among Italian women drivers.

Buying choices: models, fuel types, and budget

Data analysis reveals that the average price of new cars purchased by women in 2024 stabilized at €24,500, a lower figure compared to the €30,600 spent by men. This price gap has remained steady over the years, with a more pronounced difference in Northeastern Italy.

Regarding market preferences, women favor A-segment (17.4%) and B-segment (65.3%) cars, showing a strong interest in SUVs (50.3%), although to a lesser extent than men. In terms of fuel types, hybrid vehicles (HEV) took the lead with a 37.9% share, while LPG increased to 15.2%. Petrol cars continue to decline but still represent 37.5% of purchases, remaining more popular among women than among men.

The adoption of electric vehicles (BEV) remains limited among female buyers, reaching only 3%, compared to 4.5%among men. Similarly, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles have not gained significant traction, dropping to just 1%.

A distinct color identity: women’s car preferences

Women’s color preferences reflect a well-defined taste. Gray (32.9%) is the most favored color, followed by white (25.0%), while black (16.8%) and blue (11.0%) are less common choices. This trend aligns with male preferences, although men show an even stronger preference for gray (36.5%).

Who is driving the change?

By the end of 2024, 40.3% of private cars on Italian roads were driven by women, a steadily growing figure. Even in the automotive sector workforce, while women still make up only 19%, their presence is expected to increase as market dynamics evolve.

The future of female mobility

UNRAE’s analysis demonstrates that women play an increasingly central role in the automotive industry. The shift in buying preferences, the adoption of hybrid and eco-friendly technologies, and the growing female presence in the car fleet outline a future where mobility will be increasingly influenced by women’s choices.

Andrea Cardinali, General Director of UNRAE, emphasized that these insights provide a clear picture of the evolution of female mobility in Italy, offering valuable input for shaping future sustainable mobility strategies.

The European Commission has announced a major revision of vehicle emission regulations, granting car manufacturers three years instead of one to comply with new standards and avoid heavy penalties. The decision, announced by President Ursula von der Leyen, was welcomed by the industry and by Italy’s Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy, Adolfo Urso, who called it crucial for the survival of European car manufacturing.

A Balance Between Sustainability and Realism

The revision of car emissions rules comes from the need to balance ecological transition with the economic difficulties facing the automotive sector. Von der Leyen emphasized that while environmental goals must be maintained, pragmatism is needed in times of crisis.

In recent years, the automotive industry has faced unprecedented challenges, including:

• Semiconductor shortages, slowing vehicle production.
• Rising raw material costs, straining corporate budgets.
• Inflation and declining demand, making the transition to cleaner models more difficult.

Granting more time to meet new standards could strike a balance between technological innovation and economic sustainability.

The Auto Industry Cheers

Major European car manufacturers like Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Renault have welcomed the Commission’s decision. The extended timeframe will allow them to:

• Invest more in research on low-emission technologies.
• Upgrade production plants without risking closures or relocations.
• Remain competitive against non-European markets with less stringent environmental regulations.

Minister Adolfo Urso also hailed the decision, calling it a “lifeline for European car manufacturing.”

What Changes for Consumers?

For car buyers, this extension may mean greater availability of Euro 6 models in the coming years, with more competitive prices compared to electric or hybrid vehicles. However, the debate remains open about the environmental impact of this decision and the need to accelerate the spread of zero-emission vehicles.

A Strategic Delay or a Step Backward?

The Commission’s decision has sparked mixed reactions. Environmental organizations fear that extending the compliance period could slow down the fight against air pollution. On the other hand, industrial economy experts argue that the sector needs stability to face the challenge of the energy transition.

The question remains: is this extension an opportunity for European automotive or a setback for green innovation? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The sapiens car: the future of intelligent mobility

The sapiens car represents a groundbreaking innovation in the automotive sector, according to research presented by the automotive and mobility observatory of Luiss Business School. This new concept vehicle, also known as a “software-defined vehicle” (SDV), integrates advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance safety, optimize the driving experience, and simplify daily tasks.

The study, titled “From sapiens car to sapiens driver,” analyzed the reactions, expectations, and concerns of Italian drivers toward this technology. The findings are remarkable: over 55% of respondents feel ready to drive an intelligent vehicle, appreciating its innovation and user-friendliness.

Technology and safety: a winning combination

Michele Crisci, President of UNRAE, emphasized that the sapiens car is more than just a vehicle; it is a technological ecosystem. “AI does not replace the driver but enhances them,” he stated, highlighting its aim to reduce road accidents and improve mobility efficiency.

Safety is indeed one of the technology’s strong points: 53.5% of respondents trust AI’s ability to prevent accidents, and 62.3% feel reassured knowing these systems are designed to avoid collisions.

Challenges and opportunities for artificial intelligence

However, there are challenges. Drivers expressed concerns about potentially high maintenance and upgrade costs, cited by 83.2% of respondents, and the full delegation of decision-making, which only 28% found acceptable.

Despite these challenges, the AI automotive market is in a highly expansive phase. Currently, eleven SDV platforms are available, and at least eighteen more are expected in the next two years. This growth is also driven by the increasing integration of intelligent voice assistants like ChatGPT, Google Assistant, and Alexa in vehicles.

A growing market

According to the World Economic Forum, the computing power allocated to AI doubles every 100 days, with the automotive sector now accounting for 17% of the U.S. semiconductor market. Additionally, the market for in-cabin sensing systems is projected to grow to $6–8 billion by 2030.

Toward intelligent and sustainable mobility

The sapiens car is not just a technological advancement but also a cultural shift toward safer, more sustainable, and personalized mobility. Luiss Business School’s research lays the groundwork for integrating artificial intelligence into other sectors, empowering users to play an active and conscious role in decision-making.

The Sicilia Express, an experiential train designed to bring Sicilian expats home for Christmas, has achieved unprecedented success. Despite booking system issues and high demand, the Sicilian Region promises a second train to meet mobility needs.

A unique journey through Italy

Launched by the Sicilian Region in collaboration with FS Italian Railways and Treni Turistici Italiani, Sicilia Express offers an affordable and cultural alternative to traditional transport methods. Departing on December 21st from Turin, the train will stop in key cities like Milan, Bologna, Florence, and Rome before reaching Sicily, where it will split into two routes: one to Palermo and another to Syracuse.

During the 22-hour journey, passengers can enjoy a unique experience with tastings of Sicilian delicacies, performances by local artists, and influencers documenting the adventure.

Affordable prices and high interest

Thanks to regional funding, ticket prices are highly affordable: starting at €29.90 for a seat, up to €129.90 for a single sleeper cabin. However, the first click day on December 3rd caused significant issues, with the designated booking website crashing, leaving many users unable to purchase tickets. Within half an hour, all tickets were sold out, disappointing many expats.

A project promoting sustainability

The Sicilia Express is not just a means of transport but also an initiative promoting slow and sustainable tourism. Passengers will have the chance to admire breathtaking landscapes and rediscover the convenience and comfort of train travel. This initiative complements other regional measures, like the airfare subsidy program, to make returning to Sicily for the holidays more affordable.

Regional promise: a second train on the way

The region confirmed plans for a second train to address the extraordinary demand. “We have proven this initiative meets a real need. We are already working on another trip,” said mobility assessor Alessandro Aricò. Regional President Renato Schifani highlighted the importance of such projects to support Sicilians living far from home.

The success of the Sicilia Express highlights the need for more accessible and efficient transport solutions for Sicilian expats. Initiatives like this are a step forward in improving connectivity between Sicily and the rest of Italy while embracing cultural and tourism aspects.

What do you think about this initiative? Share your opinion in the comments below!

In the first nine months of 2024, the Italian new car market recorded a 1.9% increase in registrations and a 3.8% rise in financing requests compared to the same period in 2023. However, this growth is less pronounced than in previous years, highlighting issues related to purchasing power and rising vehicle costs. Young people (aged 18-29) face particular difficulties, with a 3.1% drop in registrations and a 0.8% decline in financing requests, showing reduced access to the new car market.

New cars dominate the North, used cars lead the South

Regional analysis reveals notable differences in consumer behavior. The Center-North accounts for 60% of financing requests for new cars, with Lombardy alone covering 21.3%. Conversely, the used car market prevails in the South, with Sicily, Campania, and Puglia representing 38.4% of financing requests in this segment. These trends reflect socio-economic disparities, with lower-income regions relying more on second-hand solutions.

Shifts in fuel type preferences

The automotive sector is undergoing an energy transition, but the results are mixed. Registrations of diesel cars fell by 22.8%, while hybrid cars continue to gain traction (+12.9%). However, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are struggling to take off, hindered by limited and insufficient incentives. In the used car market, alternative fuel types are gaining momentum, albeit from a low starting point.

Financing trends: from balloon payments to flexible solutions

The financing landscape is evolving. For new cars, there has been an increase in balloon payments exceeding €20,000 (+22%), signaling a greater reliance on long-term solutions. In the used car market, loan terms longer than five years have grown by 14.5%, offering consumers more flexibility to manage costs.

Commercial vehicles: caution and cost control

The commercial vehicle sector shows a more cautious trajectory. While registrations grew by 10.6%, financing demand remains subdued. Preference is given to smaller loans (up to €15,000), reflecting a conservative approach by businesses and self-employed professionals aiming to manage costs in uncertain economic times.

A forward-looking analysis
The biannual report by the Credit & Mobility Observatory, a collaboration between Experian and UNRAE, provides a clear view of market trends. This partnership enables the anticipation of industry developments and the proposal of innovative solutions to ensure fairer credit access, thus fostering the growth of the automotive sector.

A new chapter for FEAC’s leadership

Matteo Taverni, CEO of Truck Italia, has been appointed president of the commercial vehicles committee of FEAC (the European Mercedes-Benz Dealers Association). This appointment, made official during the annual general assembly in Barcelona, marks a significant recognition for Italy, now represented by Taverni in the presidium of the world’s largest Mercedes-Benz dealership association.

FEAC: a key organization for Mercedes-Benz

FEAC brings together Mercedes-Benz dealers from 20 countries, accounting for one-third of global car sales and over 75% of global commercial and industrial vehicle sales. The newly structured governance introduces a five-member presidium, including Taverni, to lead the association into the future of the automotive sector.

Challenges in the automotive industry

In his speech, Matteo Taverni highlighted the major challenges the sector faces:

• Electrification and new technologies;
• Changes in distribution models;
• Increasing competition from Asian manufacturers.

Taverni emphasized the need to enhance the customer experience by leveraging the network’s strengths: professionalism, transparency, and expertise, while fully embracing digital opportunities.

Truck Italia: a trusted leader

Since 2007, Matteo Taverni has led Truck Italia, a market leader in the sales, rental, and servicing of commercial vehicles, industrial vehicles, earth-moving machinery, and cars. With over 40 years of experience, Truck Italia operates in Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and Liguria, boasting seven strategic locations: Montelupo Fiorentino, Campi Bisenzio, Pisa, Livorno, Grosseto, Crespellano, and Vezzano Ligure.

Conclusion

Matteo Taverni’s appointment marks a crucial step in Italian representation within a European context. His leadership will bring Truck Italia’s expertise and commitment to addressing the automotive sector’s ongoing transformation.

What’s your opinion on Taverni’s appointment? Share your thoughts in the form below

A struggling market: october 2024 figures

The trailer and semi-trailer market continues its negative trend. In October 2024, 1,200 trailers were registered, 76 fewer than in the same month of 2023, marking a 6.0% decline. This is the fourth consecutive month of downturn and the ninth in ten months.

Between January and October 2024, the market has seen an overall drop of 14.0%, with 11,413 units registered compared to 13,267 in the same period in 2023, a loss of 1,854 units.

Unrae’s concern: outdated vehicle fleets

Michele Mastagni, Coordinator of the Trailer and Semi-Trailer Group at unrae, highlights the alarming average age of vehicles in Italy. The 2024 drop in registrations exacerbates safety and environmental concerns.

Mastagni emphasizes the need for government intervention, including:

• Disincentives for outdated vehicles, restricting cargo types based on vehicle age.
• Measures to enhance road safety and environmental sustainability.

Structured incentives to renew fleets

Many transport companies face financial difficulties and need support to meet sustainability standards. Mastagni suggests:

• Predictable incentives funded consistently to ease fleet renewal.
• Tools to help companies plan long-term investments without relying on temporary measures.

Aligning with european standards

Unrae calls for decisive steps to modernize the sector:

• Allowing vehicle combinations up to 18.75 meters, in line with European regulations.
• Streamlining road code regulations to enable the registration of innovative and technologically advanced vehicles, boosting the competitiveness of Italian companies.

Mastagni concludes that these actions are crucial to revitalizing the market and ensuring the industry’s growth.