MANCHESTER, U.K. -- With two motoring-related technological advances being announced - the EU is considering introducing satellite speed limiters that will limit the speed of all cars to 70 mph, and driverless vehicles may be introduced in the next decade - online car finance specialist Carfinance 247 asked British motorists what their views are.
The study* revealed that, when asked: Do you agree with the introduction of 70mph speed limiters being fitted to all new UK cars?
· overall, the public were equally split, with 49% saying “yes” and 51% saying “no”;
· 69% of female drivers agreed to the introduction of speed limiters compared to just 34% of male motorists;
· 65% of those in the 30-39 age band were the most pro-speed limiters being introduced while those in both the 40-49 age bracket and those aged 50-59 were most against it (58% and 57% respectively);
· 63% of people said they felt that having 70mph speed limiters could actually be dangerous when driving (for example, when trying to overtake on a UK motorway).
The poll also asked: Driverless cars may be introduced in less than a decade - would you be comfortable in a self-driven vehicle?
· over two thirds of respondents (69%) said “no”;
· nearly a quarter of males (24%) said they would use a driverless vehicle compared to 40% of females;
· nearly half those who answered said they felt that human error is less dangerous than computer error; and, that the idea is “too scary” and “like something out of a sci-fi film”;
· 32% said that it will create more unemployment.
32% also said that overall, they will add to a road users’ safety.
Emily Henshall, Marketing Manager, at Carfinance 247 (http://www.carfinance247.co.uk) says: “We all rely on technology in our everyday lives, from using computers, making calls, watching TV, and even simply boiling a kettle. It is interesting that with travel, people will use a plane with autopilot but do not feel as comfortable using a car with the same functionality”.
Ends
*Survey carried out on behalf of Carfinance 247 by Usurv, September 2013
