Understanding Family-Oriented Vehicle Needs: Insights from Two-Child Families with Older Adults in China

With China’s shift from the one-child policy to the two-child policy, multigenerational families—comprising two children and older adults—have become increasingly prevalent, introducing unique challenges to daily travel. This study explores the specific travel needs of such families, identifies key pain points, and provides actionable insights to enhance their shared travel experiences. By analyzing factors influencing vehicle purchase decisions and conducting in-depth user interviews, the research highlights three primary needs: supporting children's education and entertainment, fostering family interaction and communication, and ensuring the health and safety of older adults. These findings inform the conceptualization of intelligent vehicle features such as interactive entertainment modules, real-time health monitoring, and comprehensive information systems. These solutions aim to enhance vehicle cabin functionality and adaptability, addressing the diverse requirements of multigenerational families. The study offers valuable guidance for automakers and designers, contributing to the development of user-centric, family-oriented automotive solutions that align with evolving family dynamics.