Public transport, two-wheelers and walking lead mobility choices in India: Report

The survey found that 47 per cent of respondents would feel safe riding in a self-driving car.

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Public transport, two-wheelers and walking remain the most preferred modes of mobility in India, according to the Ipsos Mobility Report 2026, which tracks mobility trends, safety perceptions and sustainability attitudes across 31 countries.

It said that public transport accounts for 24 per cent of usage, followed by two-wheelers and walking at 18 per cent each. While cars and taxis account for 7 per cent each, bicycles stand at 6 per cent and ride-hailing at 2 per cent.

India differs from several global markets, where cars remain the dominant mode of mobility, the report noted.

Public transport dominates daily mobility

The report added that accessibility remains a key factor, with 64 per cent of Indians reporting access to public transport, compared to 80 per cent in Singapore. On safety, 66 per cent of respondents in India rated public transport as safe, placing the country in the mid-tier globally. At the same time, 6 in 10 Indians said they prefer public transport over personal vehicles for environmental reasons.“Public transport emerging as the top choice in India is not surprising. A strong ecosystem of metro rail and buses supports daily commuting and forms the backbone of urban mobility,” said Balaji Pandiaraj, Head of Automotive & Mobility Development and Customer Experience, Ipsos India.

Cars retain aspirational value, EV interest rises

Despite lower usage, cars continue to hold aspirational value. Three in 10 Indians said it is difficult to imagine life without a car, while 46 per cent said they prefer owning one even if not essential.Car penetration remains low at 26–34 vehicles per 1,000 people, with only 7.5–8 per cent of households owning a car, compared to around 50 per cent owning a two-wheeler.

Interest in electric vehicles is increasing, with 40 per cent of respondents saying EVs are appealing and 63 per cent indicating they are likely to adopt one within five years.

Current EV penetration stands at 8.36 per cent, including 6.4 per cent for two-wheelers and 4.3 per cent for four-wheelers, while the national target is 30 per cent by 2030.The report also noted that 56 per cent of respondents want faster government action, while 66 per cent support reducing road user charges such as tolls to accelerate EV adoption.

Technology, safety and consumer preferences

The survey found that 47 per cent of respondents would feel safe riding in a self-driving car.

On purchasing preferences, 62 per cent said they have no preference between technology-led brands and traditional automakers, while 22 per cent prefer established brands and 16 per cent favour technology-driven players.

Concerns around data privacy are rising as vehicles become more connected, with respondents expecting government regulation to safeguard personal data.

The report added that while most consumers say country of origin does not influence purchase decisions, geopolitical considerations continue to play a role.