Researchers from the National Automobile Association of Russia and the marketing firm FDF Group recently commissioned a sociological survey to gauge how drivers feel about toll roads and the use of automated traffic enforcement. The study, which draws on the responses of a broad sample of car owners, turns up a clear mood among everyday motorists: many are wary of toll schemes and skeptical about the full benefits of camera-based monitoring.
At the time of the survey, 58 percent of car owners did not support the idea of introducing toll roads. Thirty-seven percent saw potential benefits in tolling, while five percent were unsure or could not provide an answer. The NAS and its partners noted that toll tariffs were perceived as misaligned with current market realities, signaling a possible mismatch between pricing and actual road usage. These insights point to a growing concern that tolls may not reflect the value they claim to deliver to travelers or to regional transport networks.
One striking finding concerns the cost comparison to other travel options. For the Moscow to Krasnodar segment along the M4 highway, the survey suggests that a single trip could exceed the price of two plane tickets even before factoring in depreciation of the vehicle. This realization risks pushing traffic away from paid routes toward free alternatives, potentially increasing congestion on those free corridors and diminishing overall travel comfort within the country. The researchers emphasize that the financial burden on drivers can shift travel patterns in ways that stress the overall road network.
The study also explored opinions on the impact of camera systems that photograph and record traffic violations. A majority of 52 percent agreed that such complexes contribute to reducing accident numbers. Forty percent felt there was no meaningful effect on accident rates, while six percent believed cameras might actually raise risk, and two percent were unsure. The data underscore a nuanced public view: cameras can promote safety, but their effectiveness hinges on thoughtful deployment and integration with broader road-safety strategies.
Experts noted that the safety benefits of cameras should come with a coordinated placement approach. In particular, the NAS team argued against mounting cameras at locations that do not correlate with higher accident or fatality risk, and they cautioned against placing monitoring devices in spots where it would be inappropriate or counterproductive. The conclusion is that a holistic, well-planned framework is essential to maximize road safety while avoiding undue burdens on drivers.
Earlier remarks from NAS officials, made in interviews with industry media, touched on several challenges associated with owning and operating electric vehicles in Russia. The comments highlighted practical considerations for electric mobility, including infrastructure, charging availability, and policy support that would enable a smoother transition for drivers who choose electric models.