How smart is your driving?

Posted on May 3, 2009

Most car drivers could be travelling a lot further on a tank of fuel. No new car is required - just a change to smarter driving. Try these tips:

• Shift up the gears earlier (between 2000 and 2500rpm). Cruising comfortably in 5th gear is the best place to be.
• Cut your top speed. Wind resistance increases significantly with speed. The optimum speed for fuel efficiency is 45 - 50mph.
• Avoid unnecessary braking by anticipating the traffic ahead. Fluid motion is better than stop start.
• When slowing down, stay in gear and take your foot off the accelerator as early as possible. This reduces fuel consumption to near zero.
• Plan your route to avoid congestion or getting lost.

Smarter driving could save you the equal of about one month's worth of fuel each year.

For more money saving tips, contact the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012.

Source: Focus, May 2009