London tops list as world's slowest city to drive in
London has received the title of the world's slowest city for drivers, according to the TomTom Traffic Index. The study analyzed traffic patterns in 2023 across 387 cities in 55 countries, revealing that London's CO2 emissions from petrol vehicles rose by 1.5%. Out of 25 United Kingdom cities examined, 21 saw increased average travel times, with London and Leeds experiencing a 2.7% jump compared to 2022.
Coventry and Glasgow record decrease in average travel times
On the flip side, Coventry and Glasgow were the only two cities to see a decrease in average travel times, dropping by 1% and 1.1% year-on-year, respectively. Traffic congestion was most severe during peak hours, with Brits spending an average of 43 minutes per day commuting during rush hours. According to the data, the average travel time per 10 km taken by drivers in London is 37 minutes and 20 seconds!
Factors contributing to London's slow traffic speeds
The slow traffic speeds in London are attributed to the absence of multi-lane highways and reduced speed limits of 32kph, resulting in a low base speed. Even with light traffic, London's average speed is slower than any other major city worldwide. Despite the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) being implemented four years ago, which led to decreased air pollution and carbon emissions from road traffic in central London, congestion remains an issue.
Electric vehicles and better traffic management needed
Stephanie Leonard, head of government and regulatory affairs at TomTom, stressed the importance of electric vehicles (EVs) and improved traffic management for better traffic flow. She said, "Real-time data intelligence will play a significant role here in transforming how people move around UK cities, supporting our transition to less diesel and petrol consumption and more sustainable transportation." Leonard also pointed out the effectiveness of Low Emission Zones (LEZs) in reducing pollutants and greenhouse gases in urban areas.
If London is the slowest, which city is the fastest?
According to the data revealed by TomTom, Oklahoma City in the United States of America is the fastest city for drivers, with an average travel time per 10 km only eight minutes and 40 seconds. The city grabbed the same spot in 2022. With 14% congestion level, the city witnesses an average speed of 61 kph during rush hours, with 19 hours per year on average lost during them.
Bengaluru and Pune are also on the list
Bengaluru earned the sixth spot on this list, making it the first Indian city with the slowest traffic. Per data, drivers in Bengaluru take an average time of about 28 minutes and 10 seconds per 10 km, recording a congestion level of 63%. They lose 132 hours on average per year during rush hours. Pune also followed suit, occupying the seventh spot globally. The drivers in this city take 27 minutes and 50 seconds per 10 km on average.
