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Overwhelming support for a fuel price cap found among UK drivers

More than nine in 10 British motorists would support a fuel price cap with a poll of 1,000 drivers fidning that more than nine in 10 (93%) believe getting around is becoming increasingly expensive

[A man at a gas station holds a wallet in his hand while refueling and checks on the display whether he will have enough money]

For six in 10 drivers, their car is their biggest expense(Image: Getty)

To help combat the spiraling cost of fuel in the UK, 92% of British motorists would be in favour of the government introducing a fuel price cap. This comes as they fear current international tensions will continue to have a lasting impact on the price of petrol.

A poll of 1,000 drivers found more than nine in 10 (93%) believe getting around is becoming increasingly expensive. As a result, exactly three in 10 have had to postpone non-urgent maintenance and repairs for their vehicle, while 64% have reduced the number of non-essential journeys they take.

The study also found 72% of drivers believe owning a private car has become a luxury. This is particularly apparent among younger generations, with 90% of motorists aged 18-24 sharing this view.

[Man filling up car with petrol]

Nearly three quarters of drivers say a private car us a luxury(Image: Getty)

For 62% of motorists, their car is the biggest part of their budget.

Going without a car isnt an option for many though, as 85% wouldnt be able to get around as they would usually like without one.

However, 57% are exploring more sustainable travel options to combat these growing financial pressures, with 44% using public transport more. This rises to 66% among those aged 18 to 24.

The study also found more than a quarter (26%) have switched to more environmentally friendly engines, such as EVs.

[Display board shows prices at a fuel station. ]

Conflict in the Middle East has impacted fuel prices(Image: Getty / Frank Herrmann)

On average, British motorists spend 466 per month financing their car - with 15 to 34-year-olds spending the most (789), while those aged 50 to 64 spend the least (293).

Matt Barrick, CEO of CarSupermarket.com, which commissioned the research, said: The cost of simply getting from A to B is becoming too much for many, and the uncertainty in the Middle East is only adding to motorists worries.

Cars play an important role in helping people get around, particularly those in more rural areas where public transport links arent as efficient.

While money may be tighter, it is important that you dont skip urgent repairs, as travelling in an unsafe vehicle isnt just dangerous for you, but also for those around you.

[Tourist refueling car in Portugal]

Just 12% of adults know what a 'reconditioned' car is(Image: Getty)

Despite being a cheaper option, a separate piece of research of 1,000 adults found just 12% know exactly what a reconditioned car means. Of those who do know about reconditioned cars, two in five would consider buying one.

With 58% highlighting the balance of cost and quality as a key reason for considering a reconditioned used car, while 42% consider the increased thorough inspections and warranty.

Matt Barrick, from CarSupermarket.com, added: We are seeing more people switch from traditional fuels to more sustainable options like EVs.

Many drivers come in asking about reconditioned electric vehicles because the cost of running a petrol or diesel car has become too high.

With our reconditioned promise, customers can get cars they can trust, having been checked and with all necessary work carried out to make them roadworthy. And if they do face any issues, they have a minimum 12-month warranty which allows them to bring it back if they spot something that isnt right.

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