A study by fleet provider LeasePlan UK has found that 64% of people believe that industry jargon is a barrier to communication in the motoring industry.
LeasePlan UK spoke to 2,000 people, and tested their understanding of 10 industry-related terms, included PCP, residual value, and salary sacrifice.
Just 10% agreed they could understand and briefly explain all of the words, and 56% agreed or strongly agreed that the use of jargon and abbreviations has sometimes left them more confused.
The study found that 38% had been deterred from purchasing a product or service due to motor industry language.
LeasePlan UK found a generational divide, with 74% of those over 65 agreeing that jargon created communication barriers, versus 46% of those aged 18-24.
When asked about asking for advice to understand jargon, 39% of men and 28% of women said they felt very confident doing so.
Matt Dyer, managing director of LeasePlan UK, said: “We know that jargon can lead to misunderstandings, leaving drivers exposed to unforeseen costs and risks.
“As an industry, we need to realise when this could apply and take responsibility for explaining anything complicated to customers in a clear and simple way.”
