Hundreds of UK motorists prepared to 'ditch car ownership'

Hundreds of British drivers are considering ditching their vehicles completely due to the rising cost of ownership. In particular, a rise in petrol and diesel fuel bills could tip many over the edge and force many to give up the freedom of owning a motor.

Drivers in some of the UK's busiest cities such as London, Birmingham and Manchester among the most affected. Instead, individuals would have to rely on public transport to get around instead of just hopping behind the wheel. The findings come after a wide-ranging Censuswide survey commissioned by bus operator Stagecoach who surveyed 2,000 people in April 2025.

The survey of working adults found that a staggering 41% are worried they may have to give up their cars this year if costs continue to climb.

An eye-watering 55% of road users in Plymouth said they could give up driving, followed by 48% in Brighton and 44% in Birmingham,

Another 44% said they were considering giving up their vehicles in Manchester with 43% happy to stop in London.

Debra Goodwin, Chief Commercial Officer at Stagecoach, said: "In today's non-stop world with costs rising, considering alternative ways to commute into work is important.

"Taking the bus to work not only allows commuters to take time out to think and relax, but it's also a cost-effective method of transportation to and from work."

It comes after fears that petrol and diesel prices could rise due to an increase in the price of oil.

Last week, the RAC warned that the average price of petrol has increased by 1.5p to stand at around 133.5p per litre. Meanwhile, diesel has gone up by 2p, reaching a UK average of 140p per litre.

However, the RAC warned that it was possible that the average price of fuel may "go up further" in a possible blow to motorists.

According to the study, 25% of working adults say they find driving more stressful than taking the bus or train.

A hefty 35% of those polled said that too much traffic was the top frustration for commuters in 2025.

A further 24% said they always felt rushed with 19% claiming their journey into the office was uncomfortable or noisy.

Debra added: "In a time when mental wellness is paramount, trading costly and stressful car commutes for calmer, more productive journeys could be the change many need."