Half of British drivers have given their cars a name, with ‘Baby’, ‘Beast’, and ‘Bella’ among the nation’s favourites, a new survey reveals. A poll of 2,000 motorists found that a quarter of those who name their cars do so because they feel a strong emotional connection, with many considering their vehicle part of the family. A third even believe their car has a personality of its own.
The research was commissioned by TV streaming service U to coincide with Name Your Car Day, which is home to many motoring shows including Bangers & Cash.
Bangers & Cash is now in its 12th season with all episodes available to watch on demand. Star of the show Derek Mathewson said: "I like National Name Your Car Day, it shows how important cars are to us. It's kind of nostalgic to me. Cars were part of the family, they really were.
"I am surprised at some of the names on the list. There are a lot starting with the letter B. I've had a good number of cars I've called something beginning with B over the years, but I'm glad to see they are not on the list! I do like Betty though.
"Although I remember we had an Avenger Estate called 'Auntie', I've no idea why. I think it's because she was so reliable."
The study found 51 per cent of car-namers believe it makes them drive more carefully, while 61 per cent say it makes journeys more enjoyable. Some take inspiration from the car’s make, model, or colour, and a third give their car a name as soon as they get it.
However, not everyone is keen to share their car’s moniker as 17 per cent keep it a secret, this might be because 44 per cent say they’ve been teased over their choice.
Naming a car can also deepen the bond according to the study, with 79 per cent admitting they’d feel sad scrapping or selling a vehicle they’d named.
A spokesperson for U added: "The emotional attachment people feel to their named cars is real – and often surprisingly strong.
"That's why shows like Bangers & Cash resonate so deeply - they celebrate the stories behind the vehicles, not just the engines."