Scots driving habits not affected by cuts 17 | 11 | 2010

IT MAY COME as something of a surprise, but 62% of drivers believe the austerity measures which are hitting Scots will not affect the way they use their car. As Scotland suffers severe spending cuts announced in Holyrood today, and with more job losses and VAT rises imminent, drivers are surprisingly optimistic about the minimal impact they will have on their motoring habits.

As the country suffers under Government spending cuts, job losses and the looming VAT rise, drivers are surprisingly optimistic about the minimal impact they will have on their motoring habits.

The survey, conducted by One Poll for Manheim Auctions in October and which gathered responses from 3000 drivers, also showed that despite motorists’ driving habits remaining the same, a whopping 72% were seriously considering exchanging their car for something more economically friendly, with cheaper road tax and lower carbon emissions.

“The Government’s spending cuts will affect everyone in some way, but our research suggests many drivers will continue to use their car as they always have," Craig Mailey, marketing director for Manheim Auctions, said.

“For many, driving less is simply not an option. However, it’s great to see that motorists are seriously looking at ways to drive more economically. Although you may pay more initially, ensuring your next car is fuel efficient will save you money in the long run, especially with the benefits of lower road tax and cheaper insurance.”

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Jim McGill