British motorists reckon they’re far more polite behind the wheel than their French counterparts – and have branded their horn-loving neighbours the loudest drivers on the road. A new study has crowned Brits as the most reserved drivers in Europe, with many suggesting it’s down to the nation’s famously polite reputation.
When quizzed on specific driving habits, 22% said the British are better at queuing and taking turns than the French, while 20% described UK motorists as simply more polite overall. The research, commissioned by French car giant Renault to mark the launch of its all-electric Renault 4, also found one in five (20%) believe the French are more likely to beep their horn than a nervous Brit.
But it’s not all plain sailing for UK drivers – 12% think Brits are actually more stressed at the wheel, despite their reserved manners.
The findings appear to back up classic stereotypes about the two nations’ personalities. Over half (57%) of those polled agreed that Brits are more awkward than their nearest neighbours, while the French are seen as more flamboyant and passionate.
No wonder then that a whopping 67% said Brits are more emotionally reserved than other Europeans – even when driving. According to the poll, Britons are also seen as more cautious (18%) and rule-focused (18%) than the French.
Despite these differences, more than a quarter (26%) believe national heritage doesn’t actually affect driving style – though 16% reckon it does, perhaps knowing their bangers and mash from their duck à l’orange. Meanwhile, 18% think your choice of car says a lot about your personality.
A spokesperson for Renault said: “The research is fascinating because it shows just how much of our driving behaviour is shaped by national stereotypes.
“At Renault, we love that Brits see themselves as polite and reserved behind the wheel, while the French have a reputation for being a little more expressive.
“With the launch of the all-electric Renault 4, a car with strong heritage in both countries, it felt like the perfect moment to explore how drivers on either side of the Channel view themselves – and each other.
“While there are clear perceptions about politeness, horn use and emotional reserve, it’s interesting that many drivers also recognise that personality and even car choice can say just as much about someone as their nationality.”
