Motorists hit by the 2p per litre increase in fuel prices at the start of this month have been reminded by the Institute of Advanced Motorists that there has never been a better time to adopt ‘green’ driving techniques to make your fuel go further:

• Use ‘accelerator’ sense.  Save fuel by planning ahead and reading the traffic in advance to gently join a queue rather than braking suddenly as you hit traffic.
• Obey the speed limits.  Try to ‘feather’ the throttle when you reach your cruising speed. Doing 56mph uses 25% less fuel than 70mph and a smoother driving style can bring significant fuel savings.
• Reduce the drag factor.  Remove roof racks and carriers when they’re not in use, as well as unnecessary boot luggage and heavy accessories. Driving with the window open and using air conditioning increases drag and lowers fuel economy, so use the vent settings instead.
• Reverse when you park.  The engine will be cold and at its least fuel-efficient when you start it. If you can drive away without having to reverse when the engine is cold, you will save fuel and have better visibility.
• Watch your levels.  If you fill your fuel tank to the brim, you may be carrying more weight on board than is necessary and this will itself reduce fuel efficiency.
• Check your tyres.  Correct tyre pressure reduces wear and helps fuel economy. Under-inflated tyres need replacing more often (itself an environmental problem) as well as being dangerous. Do a visual check every time you drive, and test the pressure at least once a week.

“An additional 2p per litre doesn’t sound much but it will quickly add up,” says Peter Rodger, the IAM’s Chief Examiner.  “Simple measures such as looking well ahead and slowing down earlier, rather than always using the brakes to slow down, can make a real difference. 

“You can’t avoid paying more for fuel, but drivers can still save pounds at the pumps by making the fuel work harder for them.”