Core Insights - Consumer intent to purchase vehicles remains strong for 2026, with 39% of U.S. adults planning to buy a car, indicating high priority for vehicle purchases [1][2][3] Consumer Intent and Trends - More than 80% of consumers intending to buy a vehicle expect to do so within the next 12 months, with 65% planning to trade in their current vehicle, supporting the used car market [2][3] - Among those planning a vehicle transaction, 87% intend to buy and 13% intend to lease, with younger generations showing a greater interest in leasing [3] Market Dynamics - Auto loan originations began to rise in 2025, driven by anticipation of tariffs and the end of the EV tax credit, with super prime and subprime segments leading this growth despite affordability challenges [4] - Affordability remains a significant obstacle, with 53% of consumers citing cost concerns and 44% citing economic uncertainty [5] Vehicle Preferences - Half of prospective buyers intend to purchase traditional gas-powered vehicles, while 33% prefer hybrids and 16% prefer electric vehicles (EVs), with Millennials showing a slight preference for hybrids [6] - Consumers interested in EVs cite lower fuel costs (72%), environmental benefits (66%), and new technology features (62%) as key reasons for their interest [7] Challenges to EV Adoption - Internal combustion powertrains dominate due to affordability and charging infrastructure challenges, with Millennials increasingly interested in hybrids and Gen Z leaning towards traditional gas vehicles [8]