UK drivers want insurance break for eco-cars
Published On 15 February 2007
UK drivers are not averse to purchasing eco-friendly cars as long as they receive beneficial car insurance policies as a result, according to new research. Research from Virgin Money Car Insurance found that while drivers understand the importance of preserving the environment, they expect their eco-friendly vehicles to get tax breaks and the best insurance deals as well.
Figures from the group show that around 41 per cent of adults – 18.9 million people in total – would pay more for a vehicle that pumped lower emissions.
And when asked which factors would 'swing it' for buyers when considering a green car such as a Toyota Prius, the majority (73 per cent) said a cut in road tax, while 71 per cent said lower insurance and 32 per cent stated better acceleration.
Jason Wyer-Smith of Virgin Money Car Insurance said: "It is encouraging that drivers want to go green and are willing to put their money where their mouths are by paying a bit extra.
"However there needs to be more carrot and less stick to encourage more people to make the move into lower carbon emission motoring. Insurers can do their bit by looking at special deals for greener cars but the government has to play its part too. Lower road tax is seen as crucial in encouraging people to change their buying habits."
The European Commission recently told car manufacturers to cut carbon emissions from vehicles by 18 per cent by 2012.
