HOLLAND, MI – Sunglasses, not smart phones, are the most important item that need to be within easy reach of drivers, according to "Stuff in Cars," a new global research study conducted by Johnson Controls Automotive Interiors.
Smart phones came in second, followed by GPS devices, according to the survey of 2,000 drivers in the United States, China and Europe.
Some of the preferences were regional, according to a Johnson Controls press release issued Wednesday, Aug. 6.
For example, garage door openers only appeared on the top-10 list for drivers in the United States. Eyeglass cases only appeared in the European top 10. An emergency hammer for escaping from the vehicle in case of an accident appeared in the top 10 only in China.
Results also showed that items that are needed from time-to-time, such as travel guides or umbrellas, as well as trash are most often stored in the door.
Sunglasses were ranked as the most important item to stow in a location that is in reach of the driver, secured and easily accessible while driving, according to the study.
“We conducted the study in the U.S., China and Europe to learn more about the items being brought into and stored in vehicles, the importance of being able to store those items and overall storage needs and preferences,” said Renae Pippel, director of strategic research for Johnson Controls Automotive Interiors.
The study is in response to the auto industry’s growing emphasis on interior design and the need for quality storage solutions.
"From the study, we're able to gain a better global understanding of the hierarchy of needs of stuff in cars. This end consumer insight helps make us smarter as we design global solutions for our customers," Pippel said.
The results revealed overall global consistency in the top ranking items that consumers consider important to be able to easily stow, however, the storage behaviors within each region show some significant differences.
Globally, consumers still place a high importance on the ability to store CD cases and maps within the interior. Additionally, books and travel guides are still far more important to provide storage solutions for than eReaders and tablets.
According to Pippel, participants were surveyed on storage attitudes, frequency and importance and current storage / satisfaction and needs. The results revealed the storage behavior of car drivers in the various regions.
The global study also showed different preferences and needs among different vehicle segments. Luxury segment owners placed the greatest importance on storage designed for a specific item, with special emphasis placed on dedicated solutions for smart phones and electronic devices.
SUV drivers also placed “a significantly higher value” on storage designed for a specific item, the study concluded. “The data also validated the belief that van owners agree that they can never have enough storage options in their vehicle,” the press release said.
Consumers in China showed the highest demand for storage options that were designed for a specific item like a smart phone, the survey revealed. On storage attitudes for both China and European countries, the most important storage solutions ensure that stuff can be fastened securely.
Johnson Controls and Yanfeng Automotive Trim Systems, Co Ltd signed a definitive agreement in May to form a global automotive interiors joint venture. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of calendar year 2015.
Jim Harger covers business for MLive/Grand Rapids Press. Email him at jharger@mlive.com or follow him on Twitter or Facebook or Google+.