A recent nationwide survey reveals that a majority of Russian car owners have engaged with toll roads, while a sizable portion remains hesitant about paying for such routes. The study, conducted by the Otkritie Avto division, the automotive unit of Otkritie Bank, sheds light on how often drivers opt for toll segments and how much they are willing to pay for a smoother ride.
Across the country, 53% of domestic drivers report using toll roads, though the frequency of use is generally modest. The distribution shows that some drivers hit toll routes several times a year (32%), others monthly (5%), and a notable segment several times each month (10%). A smaller group uses toll roads several times weekly (4%), with daily use accounting for 2%. These figures illustrate a spectrum of engagement rather than a uniform pattern of toll road dependence. The rest of drivers do not rely on toll routes for their typical journeys. [Otkritie Avto survey attribution]
Despite past growth in toll road networks, almost half of motorists express unwillingness to pay for road usage in principle. Geographic differences are striking: in Siberia, 76% of respondents reject toll payments, and in the Far East the share is 75%. In contrast, only 18% in the Moscow area and 16% in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region avoid toll roads, indicating regional differences in tolerance for tolling and perceived value. [Otkritie Avto survey attribution]
Age and gender appear related to toll road attitudes. Younger drivers, aged 18 to 25, show a higher willingness to pay, with 70% of respondents in that cohort using or considering toll routes, while men are more likely to report toll usage (55%). Older drivers, particularly those over 55, and women show more cautious behavior on toll roads, with 45% and 52% respectively willing to use or contemplate toll routes. [Otkritie Avto survey attribution]
Pricing and route choice
Cost remains the most influential factor when deciding whether to take a toll road. A large majority, 82%, are not prepared to spend more than 500 rubles for a one-way trip. Even in the Moscow region, where residents are most comfortable with a higher limit, 77% still favor the 500 ruble ceiling. A smaller share is open to higher expenditures: 13% would pay up to 1000 rubles, 2% up to 2000 rubles, and 1% up to 5000 rubles. A tiny 2% are willing to pay any amount for comfort while traveling, with women slightly more generous than men (3% vs. 1%). [Otkritie Avto survey attribution]
In practical terms, the survey suggests many drivers weigh toll costs against time savings and convenience. The decision to use or bypass toll roads depends on the perceived value of the faster journey, fuel consumption, and the availability of alternative routes. The data underscores that toll road adoption is not uniform; it varies by region, age, and gender, reflecting diverse priorities among Russian motorists. [Otkritie Avto survey attribution]
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The latest poll was conducted from November 26 to December 1 and included 1,520 car owners aged 18 to 65, selected to represent Russia’s regions. The sample aims to reflect the varied driving experiences and perspectives across the country. [Otkritie Avto survey attribution]
A picture: Depositphotos
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