Eco-Driving

Use our eco-driving tips to become a smarter driver and you could save up to £200 a year in petrol or diesel.

Eco-driving is easy, and just requires remembering the '10 steps to eco-driving' and a few small changes in driving style.

By following these simple steps you will reduce your fuel consumption which in turn will save you money. You'll also be doing your bit for the environment by reducing your carbon footprint / CO2 emissions, and you'll also be helping to reduce accident rates on our roads.

10 Steps to Eco-Driving

• Don't over-rev your engine. Change gear between 2000 and 2500 revs per minute.
• Anticipate road conditions and drive smoothly, avoiding sharp acceleration and heavy braking. This saves fuel and reduces accident rates.
• Use air conditioning sparingly as it significantly increases fuel consumption.
• The most efficient speed depends upon the car in question but is typically around 45 - 55mph. Faster speed will greatly increase your fuel consumption.
• Drive away immediately when starting from cold - idling to heat the engine wastes fuel and causes rapid engine wear.
• Accessories such as roof racks, bike carriers, and roof boxes significantly affect your car's aerodynamics and reduce fuel efficiency, so remember to remove them when not in use.
• Avoid short journeys - a cold engine uses almost twice as much fuel and catalytic converters can take five miles to become effective.
• Plan your journeys to avoid congestion, road works and getting lost.
• Check your tyre pressure regularly - under-inflated tyres are dangerous and can increase fuel consumption by up to 3%.
• If you're stuck in a jam, switch the engine off if you expect to be there for more than a minute or two. Cutting the engine will save fuel and reduce emissions.