Car Ownership Becoming a Love/Hate Relationship

With more vehicles per capita than our European counterparts, some people have romantically described the UK as a nation of car lovers. However, according to a survey carried out by GfK NOP in conjunction with Nationwide Autocentre, it appears that Britain’s love affair with cars is dwindling, with nearly 30 per cent of men and 20 per cent of women now actually resenting their vehicles.

Rising fuel costs and road tax (74 and 53% respectively) were cited as the main reason for the ill feeling. However, those in the tyre industry will be interested to hear learn that 39 per cent of motorists resent their car due to its environmental impact more than even the congestion charge. In addition to the growing trend towards smaller new car sizes, it seems that economical tyres are also likely to grow in popularity – 50 per cent of the country is spending money on essentials like food and clothing instead of maintaining their vehicles.