As Gen Z comes of age, their approach to transportation is fundamentally reshaping the mobility landscape. Digital-first, sustainability-driven, and experience-oriented, this generation is less interested in traditional car ownership and more focused on flexible, eco-friendly, and seamlessly integrated mobility solutions. While automakers and mobility providers have long been at the forefront of this transformation, utilities are now emerging as pivotal players in the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem—offering much more than just electricity. By investing in charging infrastructure, leveraging data to personalize experiences, and collaborating across the mobility value chain, utilities can accelerate Gen Z’s shift to electric mobility and unlock new value streams for the future.
Gen Z is the first generation of true digital natives. For them, mobility is not about owning a car as a status symbol, but about accessing the right mode of transport at the right time—whether that’s an e-scooter, a shared EV, or public transit. Their preferences are shaped by:
However, barriers remain. High EV costs, fragmented charging infrastructure, and complex customer journeys can deter adoption—especially for a generation that demands convenience and transparency.
The rapid growth of EVs is transforming electricity demand and creating new opportunities for utilities to lead. Their evolving role includes:
Utilities are at the forefront of deploying public and private charging stations, often in partnership with municipalities, retailers, and OEMs. Strategic placement and equitable access are essential, especially as charging infrastructure must become as ubiquitous and reliable as traditional fuel stations. Utilities are also modernizing the grid with smart technologies and dynamic load balancing to ensure reliability and support the integration of renewable energy sources—key concerns for Gen Z.
Every EV charging session generates valuable data about when, where, and how energy is consumed. Utilities that invest in unified digital platforms can:
No single player can deliver the full spectrum of Gen Z’s mobility needs. Utilities are forging partnerships with automakers, tech firms, cities, and mobility providers to:
Gen Z demands authenticity and measurable impact. Utilities can lead by:
To win the loyalty of Gen Z, utilities must deliver experiences that are:
The shift to electric mobility opens up new business models for utilities:
Utilities face hurdles such as regulatory uncertainty, fragmented customer experiences, and the need for cultural and organizational change. Success will require:
The electrification of mobility is a generational opportunity for utilities to redefine their role in society. By investing in infrastructure, harnessing data, and delivering seamless, customer-centric experiences, utilities can accelerate Gen Z’s shift to electric mobility—unlocking sustainable growth, deeper loyalty, and a cleaner future for all.
Ready to transform your EV customer journey? Publicis Sapient partners with utilities, OEMs, and ecosystem players to design and deliver the digital, data-driven solutions that power the future of mobility. Connect with our experts to start your journey.