Driving guide for economical driving

Economical driving can help you save money, fuel and the environment.

According to the latest research from the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) the cost of motoring 'remains the primary concern for drivers'*.

Here are just a few steps you can take to become more fuel efficient:

• It all starts with the car - do your homework to find the right car for your needs. Smaller engines are more fuel efficient than larger ones, which will also lower your road tax and car insurance premiums.
• Avoid driving at top speeds or revving your engine. Cars run at their most efficient at 60mph.
• Drop the drag – the more aerodynamic your car, the less fuel it will use. Close the windows and sun roof and take down the roof racks to get the most out of your fuel.
• Plan, plan, plan. Especially with city driving – plan your journey from A - Z and use motorways and free-flowing roads wherever possible.
• Make sure you know where you're going before you set off - almost 350,000 tonnes of fuel are wasted each year by lost drivers.

*Source: the Royal Automobile Club (RAC), Report on Motoring 2011.