Two thirds of young adults unable to read a map

Satellite Navigation systems are leaving young adults without basic map reading skills, new research has warned.

The study, carried out by website MyVoucherCodes polled 1,976 drivers under the age of 25 from across the UK, asking them whether they could read a map and how often they rely upon a Sat Nav when driving.

Shockingly, 67% of under 25’s said they didn’t know how to read a map, with a further 78% giving the reason that they didn’t need to learn, thanks to the increasing prevalence of Sat Nav devices in cars.

But the study could prove to be great news for retailers, as Sat Nav sales to young drivers continue to rise.

Almost all of the drivers polled admitted to using Sat Nav devices in their cars, whilst less than a quarter said they owned a map.

Mark Pearson, chairman of MyVoucherCodes, said: “It’s actually quite surprising to find out that two thirds of under 25’s can’t read a map. Whilst the Sat Nav does take away a lot of the stress associated with trying to find your destination, it doesn’t always take you t the right place.”