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Economy forcing motorists to make greener choices

Thursday, 11 Sep 2008 13:52
The BCA's annual used car report shows young people are most likely to go on public transport rather than use their cars
British Car Auctions (BCA) has published the results of a survey today that indicates the public are slowly being forced into making 'green' purchasing choices when buying a car.

The organisation's 18th annual used car market report has revealed motorists are having to take buying decisions with environmental issues in mind, due to the current economic climate.

Interestingly, it is the wealthier section of the used car market that seems most receptive to making changes.

One of the clear messages from the report is that economics is driving motorists' choices, primarily towards the government's 'think green' measures.

"Our latest used car market report reflects the downturn in the economy seen in the last twelve months", confirmed Tim Naylor, spokesman for BCA.

"UK drivers are changing their motoring habits to cope with the tougher economic conditions. And almost as an aside, many of these changes will also benefit the environment.

"We highlighted a year ago that UK motorists were unlikely to embrace green issues unless their hand was forced. It seems the credit crunch, combined with worries about vehicle excise duty and rising fuel and living costs, has done just that!"

Price is still the main motivating factor, of course, ahead of make/model, mileage and age.

Environmental issues are, however, gradually increasing in importance. Six per cent of respondents said they were an influencing factor, compared to four per cent last year and two per cent in 2006.

The current measure people are using to cut their carbon footprint seems to be merely walking more often, with 38 per cent overall deciding to make this change.

Younger drivers are most likely to use public transport or car share, while older motorists are not quite so keen to go down this road.

"The new and used vehicle market plays a key role in the UK economy, generating over £66 billion in purchase costs alone last year," added Tim Naylor.

"What we have seen in recent months is a lack of confidence in consumers to go out and buy. Our survey found that the number of consumers who had bought a car in the last two years dropped to 37 per cent compared to 40 per cent in 2007.

"28 per cent think they are likely to buy a car in the next 12 months; compared to 47 per cent who say it’s unlikely or they definitely won’t buy a car in the next year.

"But the key question for the motor industry now is whether the current economic factors will mean motorists will hold onto their existing cars for longer, as worries about job security, inflation and simply paying the mortgage take hold."

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