British people spend 30 days at service stations in their lifetime.

Brits are no strangers to spending time in motorway service stations, with a recent study by GRIDSERVE revealing that they can spend up to nine hours a year in these rest stops. This equates to a whopping 720 hours, or a whole month, over an 80-year lifespan.

The research indicates that Brits are eager to seek out their preferred service stations to enhance their rest break experience. EV drivers, in particular, are leading the charge with 22% being the most inclined to hold out for more pleasant rest stops. As charging points become increasingly accessible and some EVs can travel over 300 miles on one charge, the allure of nice rest stops is more appealing than ever.

Surprisingly, 72% of EV drivers stop at service stations for reasons beyond just refuelling their vehicles. Many drivers utilize the facilities for a variety of reasons, such as taking a break from driving (50%), stretching their legs (45%), or simply enjoying a pit stop (61%).

A significant finding from the study revealed that nearly a third (31%) of Brits are willing to delay their bathroom breaks in order to reach a more appealing service station. Additionally, 46% of electric vehicle owners find charging stops to be a welcome opportunity to relax while their cars recharge.

The research uncovered that seeking out superior facilities at service stations includes preferences for comfortable seating (31%), popular shops like M&S (25%), and independent cafes and restaurants (18%). Rebecca Trebble, Chief Customer Experience Officer at GRIDSERVE, highlighted the misconception that EV owners need to stop more frequently than petrol or diesel drivers, stating that EV drivers are increasingly charging their vehicles coincidentally with other stops. With quick charging times ranging between 20 to 30 minutes, EVs are proving to require no more stoppage time on journeys than traditional fuel-powered vehicles.

Top 10 reasons why people stop at service stations include the necessity to visit the toilet, stretch legs, take a break from driving, grab a coffee or tea, purchase a drink, have a meal, accommodate children’s needs, refuel the car with petrol or diesel, allow pets to exercise, and address children’s complaints or boredom.