Insight Into Our Love Affair With Cars

In 2007, Britain’s love for cars was obvious. Sales were at an all-time high, with more than 2.4 million vehicles purchased in just one year alone. After that, though, rising petrol prices and the recession hit residents hard, forcing them to, temporarily, set aside their love for vehicles and concentrate on more essential items in their lives, such as putting food on the table.

Like a Shakespearean romance, our love affair with cars could never truly die. While today’s sales are still 14.9 percent lower than those in 2007, the steady climb back to the top shows just how dedicated we truly are to our vehicles.

How Much Do Brits Love Their Cars?

A new national survey reveals a great deal on just how much passion we have for our cars. According to the survey:

• 25 percent of Brits have admitted to crying when they parted with their vehicle. In fact, 60% of women and 41% of men admit to having an emotional attachment to their vehicle.

• 50 percent believe it is harder to maintain their relationships than it is to maintain and purchase car parts for their cars.

• 27 percent place more personal value in their car than they do their wedding rings.

• 24 percent of men in Britain think of their car as being more valuable than the family pet.

The survey also states that 53 percent of Brits have named their car, and six out of ten times, the name begins with the letter ‘B.’ Britain residents seem to be obsessed with names like Betty, Betsy, Bess, Bertha, and Bob. However, other popular names are often Meg, Herbie, and Charlie.

For the Love of a Car

Though most of Europe may still be feeling the effects of the recession, in Britain, car sales are booming. Consumer demand for vehicles and car parts has increased greatly, a recent report shows, reaching the highest level of demand since the recession first took hold in 2008. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, or SMMT, announced in February that new car sales in Britain had risen 8% in a year.

What makes this number so significant? Across Europe, car sales are at a 17 year low. Britain, and its love for cars, seems to be the only exception. And the trend doesn’t seem to be going anywhere.

Recent research conducted by a motor loans firm stated that seven out of ten Brits said they found driving their own cars to be much more convenient than using public transportation. Some stated that using the bus or train was simply a hassle, while others believed they were safer within the confines of their own vehicle.

What’s most surprising about this report is the fact that a third of those surveyed said they would still use their vehicle, even if they had access to cheaper public transport. This revelation proves that the love affair Brits have with their vehicles is still as alive and beautiful as ever.

How Do You Show Your Love?

When it comes to your car, are you as dedicated and passionate as your fellow Brits? Do you find it easier to purchase new car parts and maintain the life of the vehicle than you do maintaining a relationship? Does your car have a name?

While the rest of Europe may be struggling to get out from under the grips of the recession, Brits are finding it easier to restore their love for today’s vehicles. Are you ready to make your next purchase? Whether you are thinking of purchasing a new car or a few car parts, don’t be afraid to let your love shine.