The Energy Saving Trust has published the following advice to help drivers to reduce their CO2 emissions.
There are a few small things we can all do when we drive our cars to help reduce the amount of fuel we burn and so cut down on CO2 emissions.
The secret is to help reduce the amount of work your engine has to do because the greater the workload, the more fuel is burned so the higher the CO2 emissions.
By following our smarter driving tips you could cut your CO2 emissions by around 8% – equivalent to an annual fuel saving of up to 1 month per year.
Behind the wheel
1. Drive Off From Cold. Modern cars are designed to move straight away. Warming up the engine just wastes fuel – and actually causes engine wear
2. Check Your Revs. Change up before 2,500rpm (petrol) or 2,000rpm (diesel)
3. Drive Smoothly. Anticipate road conditions so that you drive smoothly and avoid sharp acceleration and heavy braking. This saves fuel and reduces accident rates.
4. Step Off The Accelerator. When slowing down or driving downhill, remain in gear but take your foot off the accelerator early. This reduces fuel flow to the engine to virtually zero.
5. Slow Down. Driving within the speed limit is safer as well as being the law, and reduces fuel consumption.
Stuck in traffic
6. Switch It Off. Modern cars use virtually no extra fuel when they are re-started without pressing the accelerator. Turn off the engine if you’re going to be stationary for more than a minute or two.
Smarter preparation
7. Plan Ahead. Plan your journeys to avoid congestion and road works, and to make sure you don’t waste fuel or time getting lost!
8. Keep It Long. Use other forms of transport for short journeys, if you can. A cold engine uses almost twice as much fuel and catalytic converters can take five miles to become effective.
9. Reduce Drag. Accessories such as roof racks, bike carriers and roof boxes significantly affect your car’s 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
The next steps
For further information on how to reduce your business fuel consumption please call the Energy Saving Trust on 0800 512 012 or email advice@est-westmidlands.org.uk.
