Core Insights - The number of self-driving road trips in China is projected to reach 608 million in 2024, marking an 11.6% year-on-year increase, driven by a growing interest among younger generations, particularly those born after 2000 [2][3] - The self-driving road trip market is significantly contributing to various sectors, with an estimated industry output value of 676.2 billion yuan in 2024, promoting economic growth through a combination of automotive and tourism consumption [2][11] Group 1: Demographics and Trends - The majority of self-driving travelers are male, accounting for 70.7%, but there is a rising interest among female travelers, especially those born in the 1990s [3] - Over 50% of self-driving travelers come from third-tier cities and below, likely due to more leisure time available to residents in these areas [3] - Family and friend outings are the preferred travel styles, with nearly 80% of trips lasting less than a week, while 5.4% opt for trips longer than 12 days [3] Group 2: Travel Routes and Preferences - The most popular self-driving routes include the Sichuan-Tibet Line (G318), Northwest Ring Line, Northern Xinjiang Ring Line, and the Duku Highway, known for their scenic beauty and adventurous experiences [4][5][6] - The Sichuan-Tibet Line is particularly noted for its stunning landscapes and is best traveled in May, June, September, and October [4] Group 3: Infrastructure and Industry Support - The development of infrastructure, such as the completion of various scenic highways and service areas, is crucial for supporting the growth of self-driving tourism [7] - Standardized self-driving service stations are being established in regions like Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei to enhance traveler experiences, with plans to expand from over 30 to 100 stations [7] Group 4: Rental Trends and Popular Destinations - During the upcoming May Day holiday, rental orders are expected to surge, particularly in regions like Xinjiang, Sichuan, and Guangdong, as travelers seek to explore these areas [8] - Domestic travel hotspots include Urumqi, Chengdu, Guangzhou, and others, with a notable increase in interest in cities like Kashgar and Yining [8] Group 5: Planning and Satisfaction - Over 80% of self-driving travelers report satisfaction with their experiences, although some face challenges such as disagreements with companions and unexpected weather [10] - The industry is evolving rapidly, with improvements in market conditions and policy guidance expected to enhance the overall travel experience [11]