MOTORISTS are getting "greener" but are still reluctant to use public transport, according to a poll.

The number of drivers prepared to switch to hybrid or electric cars is growing, as is the number now car-sharing on the way to work, according to a survey from insurance company Admiral.

But only 54 per cent of those polled have used public transport at some time over the last year - the same figure as revealed in previous polls in 2004 and 2005.

Inconvenience and cost were cited as the two main reasons for not using public transport, but 26 per cent of motorists who do not use public transport had no particular reason for not doing so.

The survey showed:

  • 57 per cent of motorists are concerned about the damage their driving could do to the environment
  • 58 per cent would consider buying a hybrid or electric car compared with only 40 per cent in 2005
  • 25 per cent are involved in car-sharing on the way to work compared with only 19 per cent last year
  • Only 25 per cent reckon people living in urban areas are justified in owning 4x4 vehicles, while 70 per cent believe parents should be discouraged from driving children to school
  • Only 26 per cent think towns and cities should introduce London-style congestion charging but 40 per cent said such charges would make them use their cars less
  • 87 per cent think they are paying too much for fuel.