The more you hear about green issues, the more you may want to make small changes in your day-to-day life to reduce your carbon footprint and be a little kinder to the planet.
The more you hear about green issues, the more you may want to make small changes in your day-to-day life to reduce your carbon footprint and be a little kinder to the planet.
Driving is one way you can improve efficiency, as well as save money on fuel by putting into practice some very simple eco-motoring tips and tricks.
According to Ecodrive.org, these smart techniques can shave up to ten per cent off your fuel, while the Energy Saving Trust says you can also reduce the wear and tear of your vehicle and enjoy a less stressful time at the wheel. So why not give it a try and see how you get on?
Various organisations give advice on green motoring, but here are some of the most common suggestions:
1. Drive smoothly - don't accelerate and decelerate heavily.
2. Change up a gear before you hit 2,500 revolutions per minute
3. Ensure your tyre pressures are at the correct level. Not only do under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption because the engine has to work harder, but they can reduce your control of the car and heighten risk.
4. Lose the extra bulk - take off roof racks and bike carriers unless you're actually using them, as the less aerodynamic the vehicle, the more power it needs to travel.
5. Plan your journey - the AA recommends using a satellite navigation system or route map to ensure you can take the quickest and shortest way to your destination. In addition, check in advance for road works or traffic problems.
6. Stop the engine if you get stuck in congestion and are stationary for more than a few minutes or so.
7. Turn off the air-conditioning if you don't need it - it can increase fuel consumption at lower speeds.
8. Watch your speed and stay within the legal limit. According to the Department for Transport, driving at 70 mph on the motorway instead of 80 mph - which is also illegal - can cut ten per cent from your fuel bill.
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