Brits offered ‘Spa in a Car’ treatment to help them de-stress

New research reveals that one in four Brits (26%) get fewer than 10 minutes to themselves each day, underlining the growing need for small moments of calm in everyday life.

As a result, many are turning to an unexpected sanctuary: the car. In fact, 82% of Brits admit to staying parked for a few extra moments just to enjoy some peace and quiet, while over half (55%) say it’s one of the only places they can truly switch off from the pressures of daily life.

The research – commissioned by Hyundai – highlights how the car has evolved into a modern-day escape from busy routines. Nearly half of Brits (49%) confess to sitting in the car before heading inside for a moment to themselves, while 57% use the space to sing loudly to music without judgment. A further 43% say driving helps them clear their head when they’re feeling overwhelmed.

Now, Hyundai is bringing that feeling to life with the launch of ‘Spa in a Car’ – a one-of-a-kind Korean wellness pop-up experience housed inside its flagship all-electric SUV, the IONIQ 9. Arriving in St Martins In The Fields, Trafalgar Sq, London, for one day only on Thursday June, 11 from 10 am-6pm, the immersive activation transforms the spacious family vehicle into a calming retreat in the heart of the city.

Designed to help busy Londoners pause, reset and recharge, guests will be invited to step inside the IONIQ 9 for a free 20-minute treatment guided by a dedicated K-beauty therapist. Experiences include Korean head, neck and shoulder massage and a Korean facial massage designed to ease tension and promote calm.

The experience taps into a growing emotional connection Brits have with their cars. Research found that 62% associate the car with feelings of nostalgia, while 72% estimate many of their childhood memories were formed during family journeys.

For many families, the car remains an important shared space. Seven in ten Brits (70%) see car journeys as valuable family time, while 63% say some of their most meaningful conversations have taken place in the car. For parents, the car also plays a practical role in daily life, with 73% admitting they have driven children around to help them fall asleep.

There is also a strong emotional comfort attached to the driving experience itself. One in four (20%) Brits associate car journeys with being carried home asleep as a child, while 46% still return to the same music or audiobooks from their childhood car journeys to help them unwind or drift off today.

Comfort and environment are also key factors in helping Brits relax while travelling. Over half (51%) say comfortable seating makes them feel calm in the car, while 31% point to air conditioning and 25% say heated seats help create a more relaxing experience. Additionally, 40% of Brits find electric vehicles more calming due to their quieter interiors compared to petrol or diesel cars.

Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai and Genesis UK, said: “Spa in a Car is designed to give people something we know is increasingly hard to find – a moment to themselves. With the IONIQ 9’s spacious interior and flexible seating, we saw an opportunity to create a unique wellness experience that allows individuals and families to pause, unwind and recharge, even on the move and in the middle of a busy day.

We’re always looking for new ways to showcase the versatility of our vehicles, and Spa in a Car does exactly that – transforming the car into a sanctuary where guests can truly relax.”

Yeany Kim, Director of Fine Clinic London, said: “We’re proud to bring Korean wellness heritage to London through this unique collaboration with Hyundai. At Fine Clinic London, our Korean therapists bring the latest beauty and wellness techniques directly from Seoul, combining traditional Korean rituals with modern K-beauty innovations to create an authentic experience in the heart of London. Now, Hyundai’s Spa in a Car is reimagining that experience in an entirely new way, bringing moments of calm, care and Korean wellness culture directly to the city.”

The Hyundai IONIQ 9 combines bold design with advanced technology and premium comfort, delivering a spacious all-electric driving experience tailored to modern lifestyles. Available in both six- and seven-seat configurations, it offers a driving range of up to 385 miles and ultra-fast charging that can replenish the battery from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 24 minutes.

Spa in a Car will open to the public on Thursday June 11 in St Martins In The Fields, Trafalgar Sq, London, with free bookable slots available via Eventbrite.

Inside, the cabin is designed as a refined, lounge-like space featuring relaxation seats, sustainable materials and a panoramic curved display. Smart technologies including Remote Smart Parking Assist, Digital Key access, multiple USB-C charging points and an AI Assistant enhance everyday convenience, making driving simpler, more connected and more intuitive.

Bookings will open on Thursday May 28 at 10am.

Will you be going to the event? Let us know in the comments.