88% of Indians trust automakers with personal data

Deloitte’s 2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study reveals that Indian consumers are increasingly open to data sharing and advanced tech in vehicles, with 88% willing to share personal information for features like anti-theft tracking. The study highlights strong trust in AI, rising demand for EV infrastructure, and a shift toward smart mobility solutions.

A recent Deloitte study highlights a notable shift in consumer attitudes toward data-sharing and automotive technology in India. According to the 2025 Global Automotive Consumer Study, 88% of Indian consumers surveyed are open to sharing personal information with manufacturers or third parties in exchange for features like anti-theft tracking. This is significantly higher than the 60% reported in the US and reflects growing trust in data-driven and intelligent mobility solutions. The study, which surveyed 1,000 Indian consumers, indicates increasing comfort with digital integration in the mobility space.

Indian consumers also demonstrate a strong inclination toward advanced technologies. As per the study, 82% of participants view artificial intelligence (AI) as beneficial, and vehicle-smartphone connectivity remains a top priority. Quality and safety are paramount for Indian buyers—62% rank product quality as their leading criterion when choosing their next vehicle.

The report further notes that affordability concerns continue to shape buyer preferences. Some consumers are opting for traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles due to cost constraints and lingering concerns about electric vehicles (EVs). However, interest in hybrids and battery electric vehicles (BEVs) remains high. A significant 36% of respondents prioritize fast charging, underlining rising expectations for EV infrastructure development.

Deloitte India’s Partner and Automotive Sector Leader Rajat Mahajan noted, “The EV movement is gaining undeniable momentum, driven by consumer interest in sustainability and long-term cost benefits. Yet, barriers such as charging infrastructure, upfront costs and battery longevity continue to influence consumers.”

Brand loyalty also appears to be in flux. About 72% of Indian consumers surveyed are open to switching vehicle brands, the second-highest rate globally after China (76%), and well above the US (54%). This shift is partly influenced by evolving consumer expectations regarding vehicle performance and in-car features, which play a more significant role in India compared to developed markets like Germany and Japan, where price tends to dominate.

Additionally, the study suggests a generational transition in ownership preferences. Among respondents aged 18 to 34, 70% expressed willingness to replace traditional car ownership with Mobility-as-a-Service (MaaS) solutions. This trend highlights changing mobility patterns, influenced by financial practicality and urban convenience.

Deloitte conducted the survey in India from October to December 2024, capturing these insights at a pivotal moment in the country’s automotive evolution. The findings reflect not only the growing demand for connected and intelligent vehicles but also the need for manufacturers to adapt their offerings to meet the expectations of a digitally engaged and quality-conscious consumer base.