Research from UK automotive servicing and repair company Kwik Fit has suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the vehicle purchase intentions of UK drivers.

The survey of 2,000 UK adults suggests that just over half of UK drivers are less likely to buy a new or used car in the next 12 months.

Of the drivers more likely to buy a new or used car in the coming year as a result of Covid-19, 20 per cent said they will be using their car more as they do not want to use public transport, while 18 per cent said that they had seen the environmental benefits of lower traffic and so wanted to buy a more eco-friendly car.

Interestingly, and despite the UK government’s desire to stop the sale of all petrol, diesel and hybrid cars by 2035, all three fuel systems remain more appealing to drivers than full electric models. Just 8 per cent of car owners expect their next one to be fully electric. 16 per cent of respondents said the lockdown made them realise that they need a car more than they thought – a reason perhaps related to the concerns over public transport. 13 per cent of respondents said that they were more likely to change their car because they want to enjoy life and so would be looking to buy the car they really want.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (November 2020)

23 November 2020