2. Anticipate road conditions and drive smoothly, avoiding sharp acceleration and heavy braking. This saves fuel and reduces accident rates.
3. Use air conditioning sparingly as it significantly increases fuel consumption.
4. Drive away immediately when starting from cold - idling to heat the engine wastes fuel and causes rapid engine wear.
5. Remove roof rack when not in use - they increase drag significantly.
6. Avoid short journeys - a cold engine uses almost twice as much fuel and catalytic converters can take five miles to become effective.
7. Stick to speed limits and make your fuel go further - driving at 80mph rather than 70mph uses 10 -15% more fuel.
8. Plan your journeys - to avoid congestion, road works and getting lost.
9. Check your tyre pressure regularly - under- inflated tyres are dangerous and can increase fuel consumption by up to 3%.
10. If you're stuck in a jam, switch off - cutting the engine will save fuel and stop emissions.
Vehicle Choice
Whether considering a new or older car, it is important to take into account factors such as CO2 levels, Miles per Gallon and Benefit in Kind. Whilst influencing the tax you pay and your fuel costs, vehicle choice plays a fundamental role in environmental impact. Studies show that cars purchased outside a Company Car Scheme tend to be older, more polluting and not maintained to the same standard of a Company Car.
Fuel Choice
Today there is no single fuel choice on the market in the bid to cut emissions and increase mpg. Considerations when choosing a vehicle may encompass; Petrol vs. Diesel, the tax-favoured Bio-diesel, and the increasing range of Hybrid vehicles. Many low carbon options attract discounts in congestion charging and potential future road charging schemes.
Regular Vehicle Maintenance
Having a well-maintained vehicle is key to reducing emissions. Regular maintenance and vehicle checks also have a highly positive effect on fuel use.
Safer Driving - Greener Driving
Amongst others, heavy breaking and heavy acceleration can lead to higher fuel consumption and in turn places a greater burden on the environment.
