New research published by the AA has highlighted the different attitudes many drivers have to motoring, ranging from those who love to get out on the open roads to those who simply drive because they have to.

Drawing on five years of statistics collated across the country from the organisation's members, the research showed there are six distinct groups of motorists in the UK, with these parties made up of individuals from all ethnicities, gender and economic backgrounds.

Making up 18 per cent of drivers in the UK are those who 'drive to live' – this group typically averages 10,800 miles per year and drive every day, while they see the act of driving as necessary to fulfilling their daily responsibilities.

Conversely, 21 per cent of the driving population are classed as 'motorheads'. These individuals love everything about driving and take to the roads on average 10,500 miles per year, with 99 per cent driving most days.

A further 18 per cent of the motoring population are classed in the 'more than motoring' group and with only 25 per cent saying they take to the roads most days, these individuals are signified as taking little enjoyment from driving and instead only do so when absolutely necessary.

Perhaps shockingly, 13 per cent are classed in the 'rogue drivers' category and are typified by their willingness to bend the rules of the road and have a disregard for other motorists. They are the most likely to be found speeding and overtaking in hazardous situations.

A total of 14 per cent of drivers see motoring as 'a way of life' and 99 per cent of this group take to the roads most days. These individuals view driving and the ownership of a vehicle as a privilege and cherish how driving enables them to socialise and enjoy exploring new places.

However, in comparison to the 'motorheads' this group has no interest in the wider motoring industry.

Finally, there are the 'reluctant drivers' who make up 16 per cent of those sampled and who are characterised by a lack of confidence behind the wheel. They avoid situations where they need to carry out manoeuvres like parallel or reverse parking and are less frequent drivers than the rest of those surveyed.

This group is also the most likely to express concerns over the cost of motoring – although this is an issue which brings together all groups of drivers to some extent.

AA president Edmund King commented: "Across the spectrum of drivers, there are two concerns that unite them: fear of the rising cost of motoring and the threat of road charging. At least three in every ten struggle to continue driving because of the cost of motoring – which probably explains why at least 64 per cent in all groups oppose pay-as-you-go on privatised roads."

He added drawing on the largest sample of respondents in Europe to collate these results has thrown up some surprises, but overall, the majority of road users in the UK continue to enjoy the freedom and challenges that car ownership provides.

Do you want to save up to 4p per litre at your local service station, each and every week?

Clare Lafferty of The Fuelcard People can help you save up to 4p a litre at petrol stations near you – contact her today.

The Esso fuel card is just one of the many products Clare can offer to help you and your business to cut its diesel and petrol costs.

Posted by Clare Lafferty, Account Manager, The Fuelcard People.