The days of waiting anxiously for a recovery truck while stranded at the roadside are being consigned to history, as new research reveals British drivers are rapidly embracing digital solutions for vehicle breakdowns.
The Digital Shift in Breakdown Culture
According to a comprehensive study by the AA, nearly half of UK drivers (46%) now prefer using digital apps and online platforms to request assistance rather than making traditional phone calls. This technological transformation is particularly pronounced among electric vehicle owners, who are driving demand for specialised support services.
EV Owners Leading the Charge
The research highlights a significant generational and technological divide. While phone calls remain the preferred method for 40% of drivers, the shift toward digital solutions is unmistakable. EV owners are at the forefront of this change, with many recognising that their electric vehicles require different types of roadside assistance compared to traditional petrol or diesel cars.
"The research clearly shows that owners of newer vehicles, especially EVs, understand their cars need different support," said an AA spokesperson. "They're actively seeking out breakdown providers who offer EV-specific expertise and equipment."
What Modern Drivers Expect
The study identifies several key expectations from today's motorists:
- Faster response times through digital tracking
- EV-specific recovery equipment and expertise
- Real-time updates on assistance arrival
- Specialised help for electric vehicle issues
- Seamless app-based service management
The Future of Roadside Assistance
This digital transformation represents a fundamental shift in how Brits approach vehicle breakdowns. No longer just about getting towed to the nearest garage, modern recovery services are evolving into comprehensive mobility solutions that cater to specific vehicle technologies and driver preferences.
The trend suggests that breakdown cover providers must continue investing in digital capabilities and EV-specific training to meet the changing demands of UK motorists in the electric age.
