Smarter Driving - Cars on the road today contribute to climate change because their engines produce carbon dioxide (CO2). Yet reducing these emissions is a lot easier than you think. By simply following a few tips and suggestions, you could reduce the amount of CO2 your car gives out and save yourself some money.
There are many small things we can each do when driving our cars that can help to reduce the amount of fuel we burn and the amount of CO2 we produce. The secret is to help reduce the amount of work your engine has to do because the greater the workload, the higher the CO2 emissions. You could also save money on running costs so it can be doubly rewarding.
If all the drivers in the UK followed our Smarter Driving tips and suggestions, CO2 emissions could be reduced by 8% – or by over 5.5 million tonnes. At the same time, drivers would save themselves over £2 billion in fuel.
Here is a list of Smarter Driving tips and advice that you can start to put into practice straightaway:
 Tip 1. Pump up to cut down
Under inflated tyres create more drag on your car when it’s moving, which means your engine has to work harder, which means more fuel is used and more CO2 emissions are produced. Simply check and adjust your tyre pressure regularly - and particularly before long journeys - to reduce the drag. This will also help to increase the life of your tyres. Check your car manual for the correct tyre pressure. Remember, a car with a heavier load may need different air pressure.
Tip 2. Less clutter means lower emissions
The less weight you carry in your car the easier it is for your engine and the less fuel it has to use. We don’t mean you have to leave family members or pets behind when you leave home, just don’t pack things unless you really need them. Of course, if the alternative means two journeys, then take it with you.
Tip 3. Driving at an appropriate speed reduces CO2
Sticking within speed limits keeps you safe (and within the law). It also reduces CO2 emissions and saves money on your petrol costs. At 70mph you could be using up to 9% more fuel than at 60mph and up to 15% more fuel than at 50mph. Less stopping and starting means less CO2
Every time you stop then start again in a traffic queue, the engine uses more fuel and therefore produces more CO2. Simply keep an eye on the traffic ahead and slow down early by lifting your foot off the accelerator and keeping the car in gear. In this way, the traffic may have started moving again by the time you approach the vehicle in front, so you can then change gear and be on your way – and you never had to stop.
Tip 4. Over revving accelerates emissions
Modern car engines are designed to be efficient the moment they are switched on, so revving up like a Formula 1 car in pole position only wastes fuel and increases engine wear.
Using your gears wisely by changing up a gear a little earlier can also reduce revs. If you drive a diesel car try changing up a gear when the rev counter reaches 2000rpm. For a petrol car change up at 2500rpm.
Tip 5. Idling is wasting fuel
When you’re stuck in traffic or waiting for someone, the engine is idling so you’re wasting fuel and adding to CO2 emissions. If you’re at a standstill for more than 3 minutes, simply switch off the engine.
July 2007
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Canvas Holidays 2012
