Castrol study reveals science behind the thrill of driving

A study conducted by Castrol in collaboration with the British neuroscience company Brainbox has revealed that high speed is not the primary driver of excitement behind the wheel. Instead, the “thrill of driving” is produced by the convergence of three key factors: visceral stimulation, intellectual engagement, and emotional balance.

Researchers monitored participants using EEG, heart rate, skin conductivity, and eye-tracking sensors during various scenarios on a closed track in the United Kingdom. These scenarios ranged from slow off-road driving in a Land Rover Defender and karting to driving a McLaren Artura GT4 racing car.

The data showed that the highest levels of engagement occurred when drivers felt a sense of control over the mental and physical challenges. For example, while driving the McLaren, participants averaged 70 eye movements per minute toward the ideal racing line and only 2.5 blinks per minute, with a significant increase in heart rate.

In contrast, when participants acted as passengers during aggressive driving, the physiological response shifted from excitement to stress and fear, characterized by much higher blink rates and erratic eye movements. The study concluded that if the stimulation exceeds an individual's perceived ability to manage it, the experience shifts from a thrill to a state of fear.