What are the MENA consumers' 2011 automotive trends?

Yahoo! Maktoob Research, through its TrendTracking Tool, monitors macro-trends to find out what is popular in the market, has researched various regional automotive online forums and other public community websites to better understand this segment's needs and evolving trends. 

The most valued cars in their eyes are: Kia, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Toyota, Lexus, Nissan, BMW and Mercedes Benz.

However, the biggest leap forward that we are seeing in 2011 is the high demand for vehicles that are enhanced with advanced designs and technologies, which ought to make their driving experience very pleasurable. 

Following are the chief factors that ought to aid the MENA consumers in obtaining the driving experience they want. 

Staying in touch

Drivers are expecting and demanding to be in touch with the outside world while they're in their cars. So, they seek vehicles that have systems that make communications easier. One example is the car voice activated navigation systems that cover route directions. Another is Bluetooth capabilities that allow phone conversations to be held via a microphone and speakers in the vehicle, with "hands-free" also growing in popularity. 

Feeling Safe

Everybody seems to be searching for automobiles aiming (or claiming) to produce higher levels of car safety, comfort and vehicle security, embodied in the advanced steering systems, airbags and/or the vehicle stability control system. 

Helping the environment

What is also apparent is the public awareness of the environmental issues represented in the interest in the development of hybrid cars that are partially electrically driven or use biofuels (E85) as their energy source. 

Saving money 
Consumers in the region are looking for economic cars that can help them in facing today's' challenges but without trading off their quality. 

What is more, they are looking at hybrid cars not only for their environmental friendliness, but also their economy and value. Given that the electrical power within the vehicle means that batteries are lasting longer and do not require such a long recharging period – in fact most of the recharging is now done by the other functions of the car.

Speed

Finally, the demand for higher speed vessels is increasing. 

In this fast moving world, it is hard to keep up with the changing consumer trends and needs. And even if some companies are able to spot trends, the challenge is how to apply those trends in their product strategies, as only then they will be able to excel and outperform their rivals.