The Future Painted by Swift: How Will It Affect Our Car Choices?

After dominating Indian roads for 20 years, the Swift has now entered adulthood. If this trend continues, how will our future car choices change?

1. Today’s News: What is Happening?

Source:
The Economic Times

Summary:

• The Maruti Suzuki Swift, beloved in India for 20 years, is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.
• Since 2005, more than 3 million units have been sold, boasting a 31% market share.
• Swift sales contribute to 10% of the company’s overall revenue.

2. Three “Structures” Behind It

① The “Structure” of Problems Currently Occurring

The Indian automotive market is witnessing increased demand due to rapid population growth and urbanization.
→ “Why is Swift attracting attention now?” It is due to a market environment that demands economical and reliable vehicles.

② How It Connects to Our Lives

Cars are not just a means of transportation; they are an important choice as part of our lifestyle.
→ “How does this issue relate to our car choices?” It directly connects to our values such as fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and environmental impact.

③ Us as “Consumers”

We decide which cars to choose based on considerations of economy and environmental impact.
→ “Will we wait for society to change, or will we change our perspectives and actions?” It is essential to make choices considering sustainability.

3. IF: What Will Happen if Things Continue This Way?

Hypothesis 1 (Neutral): A Future Where Fuel Efficiency is the Norm

Economical hatchbacks like the Swift will become the standard, with fuel-efficient cars becoming mainstream across countries.
Consequently, other car manufacturers will also focus on developing compact cars.
Consumers will prioritize fuel efficiency and maintenance costs over price when choosing vehicles.

Hypothesis 2 (Optimistic): A Future Where Eco-Friendly Cars Flourish

Building on Swift’s success, the development of eco-friendly vehicles like hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs) will accelerate.
Policies in various countries will support this trend, rapidly establishing EV charging infrastructure.
With heightened environmental awareness, clean energy vehicles will become common choices, reducing the impact on the planet.

Hypothesis 3 (Pessimistic): A Future Where Diversity is Lost

In the pursuit of economy, the choices of cars will become limited, reducing the variety of distinctive models.
As manufacturers produce similar designs and specifications, urban landscapes will become homogenized.
Consumers may feel dissatisfied with the lack of choices and their need for individuality may not be met.

4. What Choices Can We Make Now?

Actions

• Focus on choosing cars with considerations for fuel efficiency and environmental impact.
• Consider using public transportation or car-sharing services.
• Raise your voice for automotive manufacturers to pursue sustainable product development.

Thought Prompts

• Think long-term and consider the entire life cycle of vehicles.
• Be aware of how individual consumer behavior can change the market.
• Consider the future of cities and imagine what kind of place you’d like to live in.

5. Activity: What Would You Do?

• Do you prioritize fuel efficiency or design when choosing a car?
• What actions will you take to reduce environmental impact?
• What technologies do you hope for in the future of automotive?

6. Conclusion: Preparing for the Next 10 Years to Make Choices Today

Future car choices reflect our lifestyles and values. What kind of future have you envisioned? Please share your thoughts through social media quotes or comments.