Evidence review of car traffic levels in Britain: A rapid evidence assessment

A rapid evidence assessment RAND Europe is an independent, not-for-profit policy research organisation that aims to improve policy and decisionmaking in the public interest through research and analysis. RAND's publications do not necessarily reflect the opinions of its research clients and sponsors. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form by any electronic or mechanical means (including photocopying, recording, or information storage and retrieval) without permission in writing from the sponsor. iii Preface This report has been produced for the UK Department for Transport. It presents findings of a rapid evidence assessment review of peer-reviewed papers, reports and other 'grey' literature to provide a better understanding of the recent levelling off in total miles driven in Britain. The primary aim of the review was to identify and present findings covering the extent to which technological, social, economic, demographic, political, geographical, and environmental changes have affected car usage and ownership. Evidence is presented on key factors within these areas, and how they affect different demographic groups, when available. A secondary aim was to explore further the drivers of these factors, where such evidence exists. No additional empirical analysis has been undertaken for this work. While the primary audience for the document is the UK Department for Transport, it may be of wider interest for transport researchers and transport planners who wish to understand better the contribution of different factors to the levelling off in car mileage in the last decade, often referred to as the 'peak car' phenomenon. RAND Europe is an independent not-for-profit policy research organisation that serves the public interest by improving policymaking and informing public debate. Our clients are European governments, institutions, and companies with a need for rigorous, impartial, multidisciplinary analysis. This report has been peer-reviewed in accordance with RAND's quality assurance standards (see