Travellers are wasting nearly three days a year due to train and traffic delays, according to a poll of 2,000 adults. The survey revealed that two-thirds believe the UK is the world’s best at ‘going nowhere fast’.
On average, road users spend three hours and 20 minutes stuck in traffic each month, while train users also experience two hours and 20 minutes of delays during their journeys. It was also found that 51 per cent wish they could use public transport more often but are concerned about potential delays.
This research comes as new modelling for Vodafone UK by WPI Strategy shows how nationwide 5G Standalone (SA) will transform road and rail journeys by reducing delays, improving traffic management and enhancing customer journeys. The modelling predicts that train users could save 26 million hours a year thanks to 5G SA enabling more reliable train journeys – saving rail companies £10 million in delay compensation.
Drivers could also benefit, with the modelling showing that they could save £2 billion on fuel a year – that’s £139.50 back in the pocket of regular road users. Andrea Dona, chief network officer at Vodafone UK, which commissioned the study, said: “We know how frustrating delayed trains, inconsistent connectivity, and gridlock traffic can be for commuters.”
“But the future can be much brighter for connectivity on the UK’s roads and railways thanks to 5G Standalone which has the power to unlock £3 billion for the UK economy and help everyone move around the country with ease.”
The study also revealed that 60 per cent are deterred by the cost, and the unreliability of rail travel (29 per cent) – with 73 per cent expressing frustration that the UK cannot emulate the reliable, more affordable services often found overseas.
On average, commuters spend just over three hours a month working on the train, with half reporting that poor internet connectivity adversely impacts their experience. While 19 per cent are enamoured with the idea of reclaiming time from driving to work on the train, they don’t find it a practical option.
Nevertheless, Vodafone’s analysis indicates that if passengers could work an additional hour each month more productively on the train, it could contribute £1 billion to the economy. For those travelling by car, one of the main worries for 39 per cent is being caught in traffic congestion.
Over a third have even opted to travel the night before an event or journey due to anxiety about potential traffic conditions on the day. It was also discovered that a third are anxious about fuel costs, with motorists spending an average of £65.80 per month on petrol.
The OnePoll.com survey shows that delayed transport not only affects commuters’ punctuality and connections but also impinges on their health appointments, with 23 per cent stating it impacts their wellbeing. A substantial 22 per cent of workers have been held up by travel issues, resulting in starting the day at least half an hour behind schedule.
The findings highlighted a stark sentiment among train passengers, where 58 per cent voiced they’d be more content with their commute if enhanced internet access were available. Furthermore, 55 per cent reckon that improved Wi-Fi connectivity would make their rail fares feel more worthwhile.
Andrea Dona commented: “Without our proposed merger with Three UK, the UK could miss out on an £11 billion self-funded infrastructure investment to deliver our goal of 5G Standalone to 95 per cent of the population by 2030, and 99 per cent of the UK population by 2034.”