Slash fuel bills the easy way

Jul 28 2009 Steve Hughes

Slash fuel bills the easy way

BRITAIN'S motorists could save up to £7.7 billion per year on fuel by learning to drive more efficiently, according to the AA.

Latest findings show that economy-minded drivers can improve their fuel efficiency by up to 15 per cent.

Motorists are wasting as much as three miles per gallon of fuel for every journey by travelling too fast, driving with the air conditioning on and windows open or revving the engine too high.

For a family with two petrol-powered cars averaging 30mpg and travelling 10,000 miles a year, the saving could be worth up to £500 a year.

Also, by driving more efficiently, wear and tear on tyres and brakes is reduced while the decrease in speed could also reduce the risk of accidents.

AA president Edmund King said: 'Motorists up and down the country have felt the pinch so this is a timely reminder of how a few simple techniques can cut as much as ten to 15 per cent off the fuel bill. Such a saving could pay for a family holiday or even be put towards a new car.

``Driving more economically can cut hundreds of pounds off the amount we pay for fuel each year.''

To help motorists get the most out of their vehicles, the AA has compiled a list of the most important tips to save fuel:

The AA has more economy tips at www.theaa.com/motoring-advice