Get straight to the point

The traditional road atlas is slowly gaining status as being old fashioned, as the modern satellite navigation system stakes its claim as the new way to reach a destination, according to a survey by Motorpoint, the UK’s largest car supermarket.

In the recent poll conducted by the retailer, 72% of respondents now prefer to use an automated in-car device, rather than navigating with a fold-up road map or paper atlas. This trend is echoed by the latest research conducted by satellite navigation manufacturer Snooper, which revealed that only one in fifteen motorists in the UK now have a map in the car, compared to one in five in 2002.

Although some flaws remain, the increasing use of electronic navigation systems means that many motorists will no longer be relegated to having to attempt to read a road map whilst at the wheel, which plagues so many drivers when travelling to a new town or city. In addition to being more alert, it is also cuts the distance travelled by an average of 16%, reducing CO2 emissions, and travelling time to an unknown destination by a staggering 18%.

Commenting on the findings, David Shelton, Managing Director of Motorpoint explains: “We have noticed a growing number of customers who are purchasing vehicles with a satellite navigation system, as it becomes the new must have accessory. With this shift in consumer preference, we are now looking to offer satellite navigation systems as part of our popular Elements packages in order to satisfy the needs of our buyers.”

For further information on the latest deals at Motorpoint, and the great value Elements packages which can be purchased with a new or used vehicle, refer to motorpoint.co.uk.