Study reveals drivers will circle the earth 63 times in their lifetime

Motorists will drive the equivalent of 63 laps around earth in their lifetime, according to a study. The poll of 2,000 people who drive found the average driver will take their test twice before passing, own five different cars, and refill their tank 1,360 times, while covering more than one and a half million miles – the equivalent of three round trips to the moon.

Looking at broader habits, 15% bought their first car at 17 years old – for an average price of £2,999, and 25 is the average age drivers first hit the road abroad, but 44% admitted they are yet to give this a go. 

The research was commissioned by Honda, to launch its new-look Civic e:HEV. The car brand also lined up a range of cars on London’s Harley Street, famous for cosmetic procedures, to show how the iconic Civic has evolved since its inception in 1972.

Andrew Winfield for the brand said: “Cars are an important way of getting around, so it’s crucial we take good care of them.

“However, cars have evolved and have become much more than just a method of getting from A-Z – so it’s important we give them the care they need.

“We spend a lot of time in our cars, and clearly cover a lot of ground, so it’s only right to make the time spent in at as enjoyable as possible.”

The study also found the average driver will change their car every five years – although 21% have had the same vehicle for a decade or longer.

The main reason for committing to a change for 46% was fancying something new – whereas 42% said they would change if their motor was no longer driveable.

When looking for a new car 75% prioritise price, 56% look for comfort and 35% are simply brand loyal. More than a third (37%) tend to buy new cars when looking for a change up.

And 28% are likely to change to an electric car within the next five years – although sceptics highlighted cost (72%), limited charge points (54%) and range anxiety (53%) as barriers to switching.

The OnePoll.com study found 27% clean their car inside and out once every few months – spending an average of 45 minutes making it look spick and span.

Gen Z take the most time making sure their car is spotless with 22% cleaning it once a week, the most of any generation.

Andrew Winfield from Honda added: “Different people will prioritise different things when it comes to buying a new car, which is natural because there is so much to consider.

“It appears some still have reservations about whether to change to electrified vehicles, but with technology advancing it’s a great time to make the switch.”