'Eco driving' tips launched
Date: 28/05/2008 12:00:00
Drivers could save hundreds of pounds a year just by following simple rules on driving more efficiently, the EU says.
The authority urged motorists to cut their emissions and lessen the impact of higher fuel costs by adopting Eco Driving.
Releasing a video on its YouTube page, EUTube, the EU executive advised drivers to check tyre pressures are correct and to reduce air conditioning use.
Advice on the video states: "The name of the game when it comes to consuming less is to reach your cruising speed fairly quickly and then to use the highest gear possible."
A practice run with a driver using the techniques over 10km saw him reduce his consumption from 7.3 litres per 100km to 4.96 litres per 100km, equating to hundreds of pounds worth of fuel over a year's driving.
With UK petrol prices still on the increase, drivers are attempting to stave off the cost of filling up, with others looking at changing cars or switching
car insurance provider.
The government is also handing out household tips on how to reduceemissions via its Act on CO2 campaign.