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Millions of Brits admit to feeling anxious when driving on motorways, according to new research.

With a busy Bank Holiday weekend approaching, UK roads are set to be clogged up with families having an end-of-summer getaway.

But a poll of 2,000 motorists by Nissan has found 23 per cent of drivers are uncomfortable on multi-lane highways.

More than half (55 per cent) of motorist say they’re nervous when hemmed in between cars and lorries on motorways, while 43 per cent cited a dislike of overtaking lorries or big vehicles.

The survey also found 39 per cent of drivers feel scared, nervous, uneasy or uncertain behind the wheel in general.

Nissan conducted the study to highlight ProPILOT, the car giant’s advanced driver assistance technology, which helps with steering, acceleration and braking.

Once active, ProPILOT maintains the vehicle’s speed and a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

It works in a single lane on highways, and is optimised for low-speed congestion and high-speed cruising.

Alex Smith, managing director, Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd, said: “As we head towards a busy weekend for the UK’s motorway network, it’s concerning that many motorists feel they lack confidence in the everyday aspects of multi-lane driving.

“Modern vehicle technologies, such as those developed under Nissan Intelligent Mobility, can play a key role in supporting a positive driver experience.

“It’s encouraging that a large proportion of drivers recognise the impact these can have on their confidence at the wheel.”

Motorway driving is the second biggest skill the public feel they lack confidence in (21 per cent of drivers), beaten only by the nation’s fear of parking (27 per cent of drivers).

Around half of drivers (47 per cent) also admitted they have taken a smaller road to avoid larger, busier routes.

One in 20 are so nervous they have taken a detour of as much as 26 miles.

Almost one-in-two motorists surveyed believe that driver assistance technologies, such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning and Intelligent Cruise Control, either would help or do help make them more confident.

Nissan’s advanced driver assistance technology is available on both the UK’s best-selling crossover, the Nissan Qashqai, and the UK’s best-selling electric car, the Nissan Leaf.

The function is activated by pressing the ProPILOT button on the car’s steering wheel.

If the vehicle in front changes speed, the ProPILOT system will react and alter the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance.

The Nissan will slow to a complete stop if traffic conditions require. It moves off automatically if the car is stationary for approximately three seconds or less.

By liberating drivers from some of the more mundane elements of motoring, ProPILOT can help to reduce fatigue and stress – particularly on motorways or during heavy traffic – and improve safety, enhancing overall control and confidence.

Article by Adrian Hearn

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