More than half (56 per cent) of all motorists would like to own a more efficient vehicle, according to new research by Autoglass, though whether they will actually make it to the showrooms remains unanswered.
In a new study by OnePoll commissioned by the vehicle glass repair firm to mark its 40th birthday, it’s revealed how attitudes to driving have changed in 40 years, with an increasing focus on fuel economy in the face of ever-rising fuel prices.
Over a third of drivers were found to be keeping their speed at a moderate pace in order to curb fuel consumption and beat the increase at the pump. Close to half (45 per cent) of male drivers chose not to accelerate as aggressively as they would have a decade ago, while 42 per cent of female drivers polled prefer using fifth gear as much as possible, to be fuel-efficient.
Nonetheless, high fuel prices were named the the top driving bugbear for UK motorists, irritating 76 per cent, followed by speed cameras (42 per cent) and the lack of road maintenance due to budget cuts (31 per cent).
Despite this interest in saving money, over two-thirds (73 per cent) would not consider a car-share with family or friends.
These rising fuel prices are one reason why around a third (35 per cent) of UK motorists preferred driving when they first passed their test compared to now.
Furthermore, 40 per cent of UK motorists said don’t see driving as a relaxation activity at all anymore and one quarter (24 per cent) dislike driving more than they used to.
Over its 40 year history, Autoglass has served over 30 million customers and replaced over 17 million windscreens.
Matthew Mycock, Autoglass® Managing Director, comments: “Motorists have been hit by a number of factors over the past few years, and it’s no surprise that high fuel prices continue to be their top bugbear. However, it’s promising to see these factors prompt a change in attitudes towards driving, creating a renewed focus on both fuel efficiency and safe driving.
“Every day we hear from our customers that travelling around parts of Britain is becoming a nightmare because of the state of the roads. Nevertheless, by making small changes to the ways we drive, whether it be using gears correctly to reduce fuel usage, or carpooling to split overall costs, motorists can work together to reduce the overall stress that unfortunately often comes with driving in today’s economic climate,” he concluded.
The nationwide OnePoll survey of 2,000 people was conducted in September 2012.
Faye has been writing about cars and environmental issues since 2007. A suspected eco-warrior working on the corporate inside, Faye mainly likes the weird, quirky vehicles that show a distinct environmental advantage. Her ideal car has enough room to fit a bale of hay in the boot. When not working, she likes nothing better than to head out on her bicycle and explore the countryside.
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