More than a third of drivers keep their speed at a moderate pace in order to curb fuel consumption, according to new research released by Autoglass. 

Prices at the pumps have led to a change in attitudes towards driving, with close to half (45%) of male drivers choosing not to accelerate as aggressively as they would have a decade ago.

A similar number (42%) of female drivers polled prefer using fifth gear as much as possible, to be fuel-efficient.

The research also found more than half (56%) of motorists polled would like to own a more fuel-efficient car, if they had the option.

However, despite current financial pressures, more than two-thirds (73%) would not consider teaming up with their friends or family to share a car.

Autoglass commissioned the research to mark its 40th birthday, and the results indicate a significant change in attitudes towards driving during this time.

For example, around a third (35%) of UK motorists preferred driving when they first passed their test compared to now.

Furthermore, less than half (40%) of UK motorists don’t see driving as a relaxation activity at all anymore and one quarter (24%) dislike driving more than they used to.

The top irritation for UK motorists is high fuel costs (76%), which continue to rocket at a time of year prices usually fall, followed by speed cameras (42%) and the lack of road maintenance due to budget cuts (31%).

Matthew Mycock, managing director at Autoglass, said: “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.”

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