What is the current state of knowledge, attitudes, and behavior regarding sustainable transportation in the Netherlands?

It appears that electric cars are gradually gaining ground. Bicycles are also on the rise. These findings come from a study conducted by Markteffect for Nationale-Nederlanden for the third consecutive year. What other insights does the study provide? Below, we’ve listed a few relevant conclusions for you:

Some survey results

• For the first time in three years, the number of gasoline-powered cars is declining. In 2025, 81% of people still owned a gasoline-powered car; now that figure is 76%. While about 8% of private individuals owned a diesel car in 2024, that number is now 5%. Hybrid car ownership is rising from 10% in 2024 to 17% in 2026. Every year, 1% more people drive an electric car: 7% in 2024, 8% in 2025, and 9% in 2026.
• Gasoline cars are being used less and less for commuting. At 38%, they are still the most popular choice, but in 2024 that figure was as high as 48%.
• Environmental concerns are playing an increasingly smaller role in the decision to drive electric. For 24%, this is the most important reason, followed by lower costs (also 24%).
• We are also using physical transportation more often for short private trips. In 2024, 8% used a bicycle for this purpose; now it’s 19%. Electric bicycle use rose from 6% to 11%. However, gasoline-powered cars remain the most popular choice for short distances (61% in 2024; now 41%).
• Many employers encourage their employees to commute to work sustainably. In 2024, 43% did so; now 51%. Half of employees can opt for a bicycle plan.

“Over the past few months, I have had the privilege of working on this interesting and informative research project for Nationale-Nederlanden. I look back on the project with great satisfaction, thanks in part to the collaboration with a highly committed and knowledgeable client.” - Kelly Haens, Research Expert

About the Markteffect Study

This quantitative study was conducted among a representative group of 2,258 respondents. In early 2026, research firm Markteffect conducted a study on sustainable transportation for Nationale-Nederlanden. A total of 1,463 private car owners, 401 people without a car, 666 business owners, and 129 advisors answered the 45 questions. The main question of the study was: what is the state of our knowledge, attitudes, and behavior regarding sustainable transportation?