Block changing 'can lead to greener driving'

Date: 22/3/2011

The Institute of Advanced Motorists has claimed that one driving technique could be good for the environment as well as save car owners money.

According to Peter Rodger, a representative for the organisation, "block changing" - which involves braking and changing gear at the optimum speed in order to skip intermediate gears - puts more pressure on brake pads rather than clutches.

Mr Rodger explained: "Missing unnecessary gears means fewer revs so it saves on fuel and wear and tear. Use your gears to go and your brakes to slow."

Brake pads are also cheaper to replace than clutches, so using the technique will help motorists avoid having to pay out for more expensive parts when it comes to servicing their vehicle, he added.

Motor insurance company Churchill recently urged car owners to give their vehicles a good spring clean as the weather gets better, which can reduce the load being carried by the vehicle, allowing it to consume less fuel.

Posted by Nick Anderson