New research commissioned by Moja, AXA UK’s digital-only insurance brand, has uncovered that a significant 64% of Britons consider their car to be their ultimate “happy place.”
The survey, which questioned 2,000 adults, highlights the profound impact that cars have on personal well-being and happiness. According to the findings, over half (52%) of respondents feel their most independent when driving, and just under half (49%) view their car as a place of happiness due to the ability to travel with family.
The study reveals that cars are not just modes of transport but cherished spaces for making memories. Nearly 38% of people identified creating lifelong memories with friends during car journeys as the most exciting experience they’ve had. Additionally, 26% of respondents have used a car trip as an opportunity to declare their love to a significant other, demonstrating the emotional significance of car travel. A fifth (20%) of people even find sleeping in their car among their more thrilling experiences.
Moja has teamed up with Chris Taylor, known for his role on Love Island and his appearance in the film Barbie, to explore these findings further. Taylor, a social media influencer and TV personality, is advocating for the recognition of cars as spaces of escapism and joy. He commented, “In today’s fast-paced world, recognising your happy place is crucial. It allows for moments of relaxation, reflection, and enjoyment on the road.”
The research also points to Scotland as the top destination for road trips, with 22% of respondents favouring it. The Southwest and Wales follow with 16% and 11%, respectively. This regional preference underscores the varied landscapes and experiences that Britons seek during their journeys.
In addition to their role in creating joyful memories, cars also serve as venues for personal conversations and problem-solving. A third (33%) of people find it easier to open up to a partner while in the car, and 21% use longer journeys as an opportunity to address relationship issues. The car’s confined space appears to facilitate communication, with 17% of individuals saying it helps when discussing difficult topics without direct eye contact.
Tara Foley, CEO of AXA UK Retail, reflected on the significance of these findings, stating, “Our research reveals the car’s central role in many pivotal moments in people’s lives, from bringing a child home for the first time to creating unforgettable experiences with friends. Recognising the car as a key element in our customers’ lives underscores the importance of making the driving experience as stress-free as possible. Moja aims to simplify motor insurance, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of our customers.”
The survey also noted that 46% of people have used their car to assist friends in need, 34% to clear their heads, and 32% to explore local areas they’ve always wanted to visit.
Moja, available at mojainsurance.co.uk, offers online-only motor insurance designed to be simple and accessible, reflecting the evolving relationship between Britons and their cars.
For more information on Moja’s insurance offerings and how they aim to support drivers, visit mojainsurance.co.uk.