As long as they’re driving a car fitted with dual controls and an approved driving instructor is present, learner drivers can now take driving lessons on motorways in the UK.

A study conducted by Citroen UK together with IAM RoadSmart shows that the majority thinks this would improve road safety. Of the 1,032 people surveyed, 61% believe students should be tested on motorways and not just in town.

While this is a voluntary test (driving instructors are the ones who make the call), it should help students develop skills such as how to join flowing traffic from a side road, leave the motorway, overtake and use the lanes correctly.

In order to help new drivers, the automaker has developed the SimplyDrive scheme, which allows first-time motorists to have a brand new Citroen model that’s fitted with a ‘black-box’ that monitors speed, braking and acceleration. This should lead not just to improved driving skills, but also lower insurance premiums.

“Citroen is a brand that understands the importance of educating new drivers, and ensuring they develop the essential skills needed to get behind the wheel of a car,” stated Citroen UK marketing exec, Souad Wrixen. “The C3 supermini was recently voted ‘Driving Instructor Car of the Year’ in the FirstCar Awards 2018, which reinforces our dedication to delivering an exceptional experience for all our customers – whether you’re an approved driving instructor or you’ve only just passed your test.”