20% of motorists will use car less after lockdown

One-fifth of drivers will use their cars less when the coronavirus lockdown ends, according to a new AA survey.

The AA/Populus poll of 20,000 people asked a range of transport and lifestyle questions related to the lockdown and suggests it could result in lasting environmental improvements.

Currently two thirds (66%) are working from home but one third (34%) are unable to do so due to furlough requirements.

Overall, 11% of all respondents (including those who don’t work) said they would work from home more often once the lockdown is lifted, with this increasing to 23% amongst those aged 35-44. 

However, changes in transport use and lifestyle changes will be complex as 40% will see more of their family that they don’t live with and 40% will do more outdoor activities after lockdown, which rises to 62% when including only 18-24-year-olds.

9% will do more volunteering in the community.

When asked what their first trip will be once restrictions on movement have been lifted, visits to friends and family topped the list.

Edmund King, AA president, said: ‘Potentially there could be major changes to the way we travel post-lockdown. Analysis suggests that one fifth might use public transport less in cities post-lockdown.

‘Outside of London which has parking and congestion charging restrictions, we could see an increase in car use in other cities where people shun public transport for fear of the virus.

‘However, this trend may be countered with a change in driving patterns by those who normally drive but have got used to leaving the car at home during lockdown. More than one in five say they will drive less after restrictions are lifted. It is also likely that at least one in ten will work from home more often.

‘There will still be a demand for new and used cars but people may just use them slightly less which will reduce congestion and bring environmental benefits.’