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1.3 Million Give Up Driving As The Cost Of Motoring Rises

With the average annual cost of running a car 21% higher than a year ago, new research has revealed that a shocking 1.3 million motorists have given up driving over the past 12 months
Finance, Leisure - 5 July 2011   Download IconContent available for download:  
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New research reveals that 1.3 million motorists have given up driving over the past 12 months because of the rising cost of motoring. In total, 76% of motorists have changed their driving habits over this period to save money.

The average motorist has an annual fuel bill of over £1,700, a 22.9% year-on-year increase and the average annual cost of running a car is now just over £3,000 a year, 21% higher than a year ago.

Some 45% of motorists (16.5 million people) are now driving less and 7% have started to car share. A further 10% (3.53 million people) have downgraded their car for one that's cheaper to run.

. Introduction:

New research has revealed that the rising cost of driving has caused a staggering 1.3 million motorists to give up driving over the past 12 months. The average annual cost of running a car is now just over £3,000, which is 21% higher than a year ago. Rising fuel bills have meant that many motorists are now driving less and the majority of motorists have changed their driving habits in order to save money.

So why has the cost of driving risen so dramatically over the past 12 months and what can motorists do about it?

Joining us to discuss this further is Ben Tyte, Head of Motor Insurance at Sainsbury’s Finance and Ian Hughes, TBC.

. Suggested Questions:

What has the new research revealed about motorists in our area?

What are the main causes behind the rising cost of running a car?

Are people really just giving up driving all together?

What can motorists do to help combat the rising cost of fuel?

Have you got any other advice for motorists who are struggling to afford the cost of running a car?

Where can our listeners find out more information?