Specific groups might be forming within that broader community around different EV brands and models.
With that in mind, True Energy started a light-hearted exercise, tapping into the power of AI to look at some of these stereotypes.
We asked ChatGPT, an advanced language model created by OpenAI, to imagine who might be driving some of the most popular EVs on our roads today, complete with age, profession, and even clothing choices.
The result was an eclectic mix of characters spanning various professions, age groups, and lifestyles. From tech-savvy city dwellers with a penchant for start-up culture to suburban educators, busy healthcare professionals, ambitious executives, creative souls, and even post-grad students – the AI’s imagination ran wild!
One thing underlined by the AI’s work and by our experience with EVs:
Of course, these driver stereotypes are a mere glimpse into the beautiful world of EVs. They represent the vibrancy and diversity of our community. No matter our background, we’re all united in our journey towards a cleaner, greener future. As EV drivers, we’re happy to fit that stereotype and be pioneers and explorers, each making a unique contribution to the electric revolution.
With that in mind, we want to ask if you see yourself in any of these imagined characters. Do you know someone who fits one of the AI-conjured profiles? Or is what AI thinks EV owners look like completely off? Let us know on our website, on LinkedIn or on Facebook.
As mentioned, this is a light-hearted exercise. It may also become apparent that the AI has mixed up details of the most popular EVs cruising our roads and their owners. If you spot any mistakes, let us know!
The typical Model Y owner is likely a mid-30s tech entrepreneur or a high-level corporate executive. They typically prefer modern, minimalist outfits – think high-quality designer jeans, a crisp white shirt, and clean, minimalist sneakers. Their home is likely a sleek modern city apartment or a smart home in an upmarket suburban neighbourhood. They are likely progressive in social orientation and are passionate about renewable energy and sustainability.
VW ID owners might be middle-aged, working in professions like education, healthcare, or public service. Their clothing choices tend to be casual and practical – chinos and a button-down shirt or a nice blouse. They probably live in a comfortable suburban house with a neat garden, and they lean towards moderate or liberal views, with a strong focus on environmental issues.
A Model 3 owner could be a young professional in their late 20s or early 30s, working in the tech industry or digital marketing. They are usually dressed in trendy casual attire – perhaps a pair of smart joggers and a hoodie from a tech start-up. They most likely live in a city condo or townhouse with sleek, modern decor. They are likely to be socially progressive and environmentally conscious.
An Audi Q4 owner is likely in their early 40s, potentially in a management position in finance or consulting. They typically dress in business casual attire, favouring well-tailored suits or high-end fashion brands. They may own a large modern house in a prestigious neighbourhood. These individuals are likely to have moderate to conservative views but appreciate the importance of sustainability.
A Skoda Enyaq owner could be in their late 40s or early 50s, working as a teacher, engineer, or small business owner. They opt for practical, comfortable clothing – think khakis, comfortable shoes, and a nice sweater. Their homes are likely comfortable and traditional, possibly in quieter, suburban areas. They’re likely to have moderate social views and a keen interest in green living.
A Volvo XC40 owner might be family-oriented in their mid-30s to early 40s, possibly working in healthcare or academia. Their clothing choices are usually classic and comfortable – jeans, comfortable shoes, and a nice shirt. They may live in a family-friendly suburb in a house with a backyard. They likely lean towards progressive social views and sustainability.
A Renault Megane owner could be a younger professional or a post-graduate student in their late 20s, working in a creative field like graphic design or journalism. They often wear casual, eclectic clothing, favouring vibrant colours and unique designs. They probably live in an urban apartment filled with plants and vintage furniture. They’re likely to be socially liberal and environmentally conscious.
The typical BMW i4 owner is likely in their mid-40s to early 50s, working in a senior management position or owning their own business. They usually favour business attire, wearing well-tailored suits and designer shoes. They likely own a modern home in a high-end neighbourhood or a luxury apartment in the city. They may lean conservative but have a strong appreciation for the importance of renewable energy.
Polestar 2 owners might be tech-savvy professionals in their mid-30s to 40s, potentially working in IT or engineering. They often prefer minimalist, practical clothing. They could live in a modern, smart home filled with the latest gadgets. They are likely socially progressive and actively interested in sustainable living and cutting-edge technology.
The Seat Cupra Born is likely to be favoured by younger, trend-conscious individuals in their late 20s to early 30s, possibly working in the creative industry. They prefer a casual, streetwear-inspired wardrobe and are likely to live in an urban setting. Their homes are likely to reflect their modern, artistic tastes. They are likely to be socially liberal and enthusiastically environmentally conscious.
The models we looked at:
These cars were the best-selling EVs in Denmark throughout the first six months of 2023.
We then asked the ChatGPT to suggest stereotypical owners or archetypes for the list of electric vehicles. We asked it to include things like age, likely profession, clothing choices, home type, and general worldview. We did not specify any region or nationality.
We then took those descriptions and reformatted them as image-generating prompts to answer the qustion of what AI thinks EV owners look like. The prompts were fed into the AI image generator Midjourney. The resulting images are here with the article and on social media.