Keys To Your First Car Or A Smartphone?

Fewer than 33% of under-21s in Scotland have a driving licence compared with nearly 50% twenty years ago. 

And the proportion of licences among people in their 20s has also fallen from 75% to just over 50% in the same period.

Transport experts say the reasons behind the change are today's high motoring costs for driving lessons, fuel, car tax and insurance.

They believe these are some of the major factors in putting young adults off buying their first car. 

With the average fully comprehensive car insurance policy for a male 17-20 at £3,635 I can see why.

So where is the connection with smartphones?

Well it seems that 17-20s are more interested in communicating by internet and phone than spending their money on cars. 

Telecommunications is removing the need for travel and owning an iPhone is way cooler than owning a car.

Young people debate what type of new mobile phone to get rather than what model of car.

Their social life is using networks, texting, music, on-line shopping, games and e-books.

And these are actually much more compatible with public transport use than driving a car.

They enjoy the time spent on public transport to catch up with friends and find out what’s happening with their friends on Facebook and Twitter.

Plus it's safer and it's green!

Student, 24 years old.

“Now I definitely find using public transport suits my lifestyle as a student. I like to use that time to catch up with my friends. I also carry my iPod with me and find it relaxing to sit on the bus and listen to music, read the paper, Facebook or text. I can get to where I need cheaply and enjoy myself while I’m doing it.” 

So are the days gone when getting a licence and buying your first car were the keys of "rites of passage" into adulthood.

Maybe...

Source: The Scotsman April 29, 2012