A new poll of 2,000 Brits aged 18-30 commissioned by energy firm Hive has found that half of young people in the UK have no intention of ever learning to drive, signalling a major shift away from car ownership among Generation Z.
Gen Z Rejects Driving as a Rite of Passage
The survey, conducted during London Climate Action Week, reveals that 77% of young adults believe driving is becoming less important, while 71% say it is no longer the rite of passage it once was. Only 50% of respondents said they could happily live without owning a car, but the same proportion have no plans to learn to drive at all.
Among those living in cities, 68% said owning a car is no longer an important life goal, and 79% would rather spend their money on holidays, brunches, or dating than on a vehicle. Instead, they rely on ride-hailing apps like Uber, e-bikes, and public transport.
Cost and Environmental Concerns Drive the Shift
The poll highlights several reasons for this trend. Some 29% of young people said they are too scared to drive, while soaring fuel prices put off one in four. More than a third (35%) see cars as a money pit, 33% simply cannot afford one, and 31% say driving lessons and insurance are too expensive.
Environmental concerns are also a major factor. Nearly nine in ten (87%) Gen Z respondents said environmental considerations influence every transport choice they make—far higher than among over-30s. Seven in ten actively choose electric or low-emission taxis when possible, and almost two-thirds of those who do want a licence said they would only learn in an electric vehicle.
City Living and Car-Free Trends
London tops the UK's car-free league table, with 61% of adults saying they do not drive, ahead of Liverpool and Plymouth. More than half (58%) of city dwellers say owning a car is pointless thanks to public transport, cycling, and ride-hailing apps.
Tom Pakenham, Commercial Director for Hive, said: "It's encouraging to see how people of all ages are embracing greener ways to travel. Electric vehicles are no longer a niche choice—they're becoming the future. As more people look to travel sustainably, we're proud to support that shift through EV charging and smarter energy solutions."
Hive commissioned the poll to highlight greener travel during London Climate Action Week, with its Hive Taxi appearing outside Battersea Power Station and around the capital.
