Recently, I rented a car with a full navigation and smartphone connectable Bluetooth head unit. It was a delight to listen to iTunes while driving in areas where there is bad radio reception. It helped me realize how important a connected car can be people who are on the road for long periods of time.
A recent study by Enterprise Holdings reported that younger Americans, especially Millenials see renting a car as a test drive and a way to discover new technology.71% surveyed reported and 88% of Millennials reported that a positive experience renting a certain car changed their perception of that specific car make or model.
Many Millennial respondents (68 percent) reported first experiencing new automotive technology through car rentals – more than any other way.
Millennials chose rental cars they want to be seen driving. A total of 57% of 25-34 year olds agreed that choice of a rental car make and model says a lot about them … their style, personality and values. Forty-six percent of men and 48 percent of women agreed.
53 % of 25-34 year olds said they select a rental car based on the desire to try something new.
28 % of Millennials reported that a rental experience triggered the decision to look for a new car to buy.
58% of the customers report that they have considered a car to purchase based on renting it.
Enterprise also sells its cars. In 2013,Enterprise Car Sales generated a record $435 million in auto loans for credit unions throughout the U.S. An increase of more than 12 percent over 2012 loan volume, with more than 26,000 loans offered through Enterprise’s credit union partners last year.