Adapting driving techniques 'can save energy'

Date: 26/10/2010

Individuals can reduce their petrol costs and carbon footprint by changing their style of driving, an expert has suggested.

Nigel Underdown, Head of Transport Advice at the Energy Saving Trust, said the majority of drivers focus on buying more economical cars when it comes to sustainable travel, but few are aware of how great an impact the way they drive has on their energy output.

"Smarter driving relies primarily on better anticipation - reading the road and traffic conditions to avoid harsh acceleration and harsh braking," he explained.

Techniques that are taught on the trust's Smarter Driving Programme include maintaining a steady speed - for example by filtering into traffic at a roundabout rather than stopping - and block changing of gears, Mr Underdown continued.

He stated on average drivers reduce their energy consumption by 15 per cent by "adopting this smoother, safer driving style".

The Energy Saving Trust is currently holding its annual Energy Saving Week, which runs from October 25th to 31st.

Posted by Nick Anderson