LeasePlan survey reveals the self-driving car generation gap

Are British drivers comfortable with the thought their grandchildren may never drive a car? Over a quarter (26 per cent) claim they are, believing the autonomous evolution is simply ‘part of life’ with the next generation having to embrace learning new skills, other than driving.

The new research from LeasePlan UK involved collecting data from 1,000 respondents, and also reveals that over one-third (36 per cent) claim they are ready to embrace driverless technology, as it would stop them from having to rely on public transport.

But, not everyone seems comfortable with an autonomous world; 26 per cent are saddened that the next generation may never know the freedom that driving gives them, as 37 per cent say driving gives them control of their destiny – something the next generations may not have. Although, another one-fifth (18 per cent) are not convinced that driving will disappear completely, given the amount of people living in rural areas.

Matt Dyer, managing director of LeasePlan UK, said; “With automakers rolling out autonomous vehicles by 2020 … fully driverless cars will be here before we know it  …and these vehicles have the potential to transform lives – with safer roads, less congestion and the potential for more free time

“But today – there’s no denying that Britain is still a nation with a love of driving – with 84 per cent choosing their car as their preferred form of transport”

The research from LeasePlan UK also shows a difference in generational attitude towards driverless cars. Surprisingly, 18-24-year-olds are the most disappointed (31 per cent) that the next generation may not know the freedom of driving, compared to just 19 per cent of drivers aged 35-44. Whilst drivers over-55 are more sentimental about the symbolism behind getting a licence, as it signifies more than just driving; demonstrating a level of responsibility and trust.

Matt Dyer adds: “It’s clear that people are starting to embrace a future where their grandchildren may never drive nor experience the rite of passage into adulthood of getting a driving licence in the traditional sense”

Fifteen percent of Brits also claimed they already use their car as a ‘mini-office’ on wheels, taking calls over hands-free or working on laptops parked from an off-site location, demonstrating the advantages driverless technology could have for the 80 per cent of business decision makers who state they complete work admin outside of their set office hours.

Dyer concludes: “The ability to travel to and from work in a fully autonomous vehicle in the future will help to give business decision makers valuable time back, to focus on growing their business – or creating a better work-life balance.

“At LeasePlan we are here to help with the challenges facing motorists today – and to help take our customers to what’s next in mobility.”