The latest research from Cars.com found that 60 percent of Americans plan to travel this Labor Day weekend, nearly double the amount compared to Memorial Day (34 percent), and 88 percent are planning to drive. As automobiles continue to be the primary mode of transportation during the COVID-19 pandemic, Cars.com’s research found virus concerns are motivating more than 50 percent of in-market shoppers to buy a car this holiday weekend — much sooner than originally planned.

“We have tracked consumer sentiment about car buying and travel habits during the pandemic for months now — and our findings continue to show that more and more people are turning to car ownership because of the safety and freedom it provides,” said Kelsey Mays, senior consumer affairs editor, Cars.com. “And, interestingly enough, this new generation of buyers – many who previously did not own a car, particularly in urban areas – are looking at sedans over the typically popular SUVs or crossovers as their vehicle of choice.”

The research shows: 51 percent of in-market car shoppers surveyed say they will buy a car this weekend and 64 percent moved up their purchase timeline due to COVID-19.

Research also shows 41 percent of shoppers are in the market for sedans, more than any other body style, followed closely by SUVs/crossovers (39 percent).  Searches for sedans increased 14 percentage points higher than the growth from April to June.

The research shows 50 percent of shoppers plan to use online/digital tools for their purchase; 43 percent plan to set up virtual appointments and take advantage of video walkarounds; and 48 percent plan to use a home-delivery option from their local dealership.

Cars.com research shows 60 percent of Americans plan to travel for Labor Day weekend, up from 36 percent for Memorial Day, while 26 percent plan to travel more than 100 miles and 49 percent plan to be gone the entire weekend or longer.