UK motorists escape to their cars for peace and quiet during COVID-19 lockdown

Up to 1.2 million UK motorists could be using their parked cars to get some peace and quiet during the COVID-19 lockdown, according to new research from car brand Skoda.

The survey of 2,000 drivers provided an insight into how Brits’ behaviours towards their cars have changed since the lockdown began and what we are missing most about driving.

With over a third (39%) of UK motorists currently working from home, drivers are using their parked cars for a range of different activities. Potentially up to 1.2 million motorists (8%), are retreating to their parked car to get some time alone away from the family, whilst in London it rises to more than a fifth (23%) who are finding solace in their car. A further 7% are using their vehicle’s infotainment system to listen to music, the radio, or a podcast.

 

Resourceful drivers

Ever resourceful, over 20% of Brits stated that they have found alternative uses for their cars while they remain stationary outside their homes, including as a place to watch TV on a mobile phone or tablet device (3%), taking a nap (3%) and even as an interim playground for the kids (2%).

Skoda research found that whilst the living room is the most popular room at home to work in, 13% of motorists are considering using their car as a makeshift office space, possibly as those working from home have found that their current environment has caused back ache from uncomfortable seating (32%) or that they have struggled to find a quiet place in the home to focus (26%).

 

Care car increased

Vehicle owners are also taking greater care of their cars during lockdown, with 22% reporting that they are washing their car more regularly, and a further one in five are cleaning the interior more often than usual.

The findings show the cleanest cars are in London, with 17% of car owners admitting to cleaning their car once a day since lockdown began.

Although motorists may be unable to get out in their vehicles at the moment – aside from essential journeys – 13% say that they have headed into the driver’s seat to dream about their post lockdown road trip.

In fact, nearly two thirds of all UK motorists are missing driving their cars, with the sense of freedom it provides being the thing they miss most (64%) – a figure that rises to 70% for ‘Generation Z’.

For those drivers living in Wales, almost one third (32%) miss being able to sing along to their favourite songs in the car, whilst in the North East, not being able to get out on the motorway is one of the most common causes of frustration (19%).

A spokesperson at Škoda said: “The research highlights that whilst we may not be able to currently use our cars in the traditional fashion, they still play a hugely significant part in our everyday lives.

“The entertainment and connectivity features of our ŠKODA models focus on ensuring maximum convenience and comfort for drivers and passengers, and are fully equipped with the latest technology, including Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and infotainment systems which are constantly online. Multiple USB ports, heated and ventilated seats, air filtration systems, and even massage seats all enhance a car’s appeal, not only when driving but when stationary too.

“These features create a versatile space for individuals and families, even during the current lockdown.”

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