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Green Driving

We all think we are good drivers, but does that include driving smart? With some simple changes to the way a vehicle is driven, there can be a reduction in fuel use and wear and tear. This smarter driving involves using gears, acceleration and anticipation to adopt a more fuel-efficient driving style. As well as reducing fuel consumption, it's safer too.

The benefits of smarter driving

A smarter driver can:

• reduce fuel bills
• cut your carbon emissions
• reduce wear and tear on the vehicle
• enjoy safer, less stressful journeys

Ten smarter driving tips:

1. Drive Off From Cold. Modern cars are designed to move straight away, don’t wait for the engine to warm up, it simply is wasting fuel, and actually causes engine wear
2. Check Your Revs. Change up before 2,500rpm for a petrol vehicle and 2,000rpm for a diesel vehicle
3. Drive Smoothly. Anticipate road conditions, avoiding harsh acceleration and heavy braking, which will save fuel and reduce your exposure to accidents
4. Step Off The Accelerator. When slowing down, taking your foot off the accelerator earlier, which will reduce fuel flow to the engine to virtually zero
5. Slow Down. Driving within or below the speed limit is safer as well as being the law, and reduces the chances of being prosecuted for a traffic offence
6. Switch It Off. Modern cars use virtually no extra fuel when they are re-started. Turn off the engine if the vehicle is going to be stationary for more than a minute or two
7. Plan Ahead. Plan journeys to avoid congestion, getting lost and road works
8. Keep It Long. Use other forms of transport for any journey, when it is practical
9. Reduce Drag. Accessories such as roof racks, bike carriers and roof boxes significantly affect a vehicles aerodynamics and reduce fuel efficiency, so remove them when not in use
10. Check Tyre Pressure. Under-inflated tyres are dangerous and increase fuel consumption

Keeping it cool

Air conditioning can significantly increase fuel consumption. Try switching it off, or use an 'eco' setting if you have one. However, if it is really hot, air conditioning is better for fuel consumption than opening windows.