"Automatics Take the Wheel: One in Four UK Driving Tests Now Shift Gears"

UK Driving Tests Shift Gears: One in Four Now Taken in Automatic Cars A significant shift is underway in UK driving habits, with one in four driving tests now taken in automatic cars, according to new data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). The trend is largely driven by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), which do not require manual gearboxes, and the looming ban on new petrol and diesel car sales in 2030. The DVSA figures show that 470,000 out of 1.8 million driving tests taken in England, Scotland, and Wales last year were done in automatics. This represents a significant increase from previous years, with the number of automatic tests rising every year. The AA, a leading UK insurer, attributes this trend to the growing popularity of EVs, which are becoming increasingly affordable and accessible to drivers. "The ban on new petrol and diesel car sales in 2030 is driving this shift," said Emma Bush, managing director of the AA's driving school. "As more people opt for electric vehicles, they're not needing to learn how to drive a manual car, which is why we're seeing this increase in automatic tests." The UK government's ban on new petrol and diesel car sales is set to come into effect in 2030, as part of its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and meet climate change targets. With the number of EVs on the road expected to rise significantly in the coming years, it's likely that the need to learn how to drive a manual car will become less relevant for future drivers. The shift towards automatic cars is also being driven by changing consumer preferences, with many drivers preferring the ease and convenience of an automatic transmission. According to the AA, this trend is not limited to young or inexperienced drivers, but is being seen across all age groups and driving backgrounds. While some may see this as a sign that manual driving skills are becoming less relevant, others argue that learning to drive a manual car still has its benefits. "Manual driving skills are still an essential part of being a competent driver," said a spokesperson for the Driving Instructors Association. "We're not advocating for the abolition of manual driving lessons, but rather encouraging drivers to be aware of the changing landscape and adapt their skills accordingly." As the UK continues to shift towards electric vehicles, it's likely that we'll see even more significant changes in driving habits and test-taking trends. With one in four driving tests now taken in automatic cars, it's clear that this trend is here to stay – at least for now. Background: The UK government has set a target of banning new petrol and diesel car sales by 2030 as part of its efforts to reduce carbon emissions and meet climate change targets. The ban is expected to have a significant impact on the automotive industry, with many manufacturers already investing heavily in electric vehicle technology. Current Status: One in four driving tests are now taken in automatic cars, according to new data from the DVSA. This trend is being driven by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles and the looming ban on new petrol and diesel car sales. Next Steps: As the UK continues to shift towards electric vehicles, it's likely that we'll see even more significant changes in driving habits and test-taking trends. With one in four driving tests now taken in automatic cars, drivers will need to adapt their skills accordingly – or risk becoming less relevant in a world dominated by EVs. This story was compiled from reports by BBC Business and BBC Business.