We all know how hard it is to choose the perfect name for a new child or pet, with hours spent scouring the internet and books, but new research has revealed a significant proportion of people are also brainstorming for ideas to name their cars.
They may just get us from point A to B, but the study undertaken by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has found more than a quarter of UK motorists are putting their thinking caps on to better personalise their trusty vehicles.
From Bertie, Bumble and Herb to Landy and Sparky, the fine art of picking the perfect name is more than just pulling one of a hat and more to do with the general look and make of the car.
In fact, it’s the Baby Boomers, those aged between 55 and 72, who are most likely to name their cars, with Doris, Dave, Henry, Betsy and The Beast the most popular choices.
And perhaps not surprisingly, females are twice as likely to do the naming than males with 65 per cent and 35 per cent respectively.
However, that isn’t the only way motorists are choosing to personalise their cars with a significant amount also purchasing personalised registrations to match, which doesn’t come cheap.
According to the report, DOR 1S sold for £6,800 (AU $12,143) in September 1990, while HEN 2Y was bought for £6,300 in June 2005.
“We sold DOR 1S, Dav 3S, Hen 2Y and HER 81E in the past, as well as personalised registrations where the meaning and significance seems much less obvious. It’s no surprise to find that people want to say something about their car in this way – whether the name is something personal to them or a bit of fun that they want to share with others,”DVLA Personalised Registrations Sales Manager Jody Davies said.
Cars may just be a mode of transport for some, but for others a lot of thought goes into all the minor details, going right back to the colour of car chosen.
Interestingly, this could have a lot to do with your personality, according to a report by car manufacturer Holden and author Angela Wright.
For example, if your car is white, it could mean that you’re a peacekeeper, while if it is orange you are more of the adventure type.