A new study has revealed the most popular names for cars among UK motorists – with one letter proving particularly popular
Half of motorists have christened their motors according to fresh research. A survey of 2,000 drivers revealed that a quarter of those who’ve named their vehicle did so because they feel an emotional bond with it – with Baby, Beast, and Bella topping the charts across Britain.
As many as 24 per cent consider their car to be a member of the family, while 30 per cent have taken this step because they believe it has a personality of its own. The study was carried out by TV streaming platform U to mark Name Your Car Day, which hosts numerous motoring programmes including Bangers & Cash.
Bangers & Cash is currently in its 12th series with every episode available on catch-up. Programme favourite 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.”
Other popular choices in the top 10 include Jack, Bandit, and Daisy. Beyond that, motorists have given their cars more out there names such as The General, Bluebird, and Roadrunner.
The study found 51 per cent of those who have named a car believe doing so makes them drive it more carefully. While 61 per cent claim it makes getting about more enjoyable.
The findings showed 17 per cent drew inspiration from their vehicle’s manufacturer or model when selecting a name, while 13 per cent were swayed by its paintwork.
A third give their car a name as soon as they get a new one, while another third wait a few days. Yet 17 per cent keep their car’s christening under wraps. This secrecy might stem from the fact that 44 per cent confess others have mocked their chosen name or passed judgement.
However, giving their car a name appears to deepen the bond between owner and vehicle, as 79 per cent admit they’ve felt or would feel sad scrapping or selling a vehicle they’d named.
The OnePoll survey discovered 51 per cent consider car-naming a quintessentially British habit with some 20 per cent able to recall when their parents named the family car when they were younger.
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.”
TOP 10 MOST POPULAR CAR NAMES:
- Baby
- Beast
- Bella
- Betsy
- Daisy
- Betty
- Bertie
- Blue
- Bandit
- Jack