The following is courtesy of Motorpoint and highlights just how much impact the higher costs of fuel are having on us all:
Nearly two out of three motorists have changed their driving habits in order to save on fuel according to a new survey by Motorpoint.
The online poll by the car supermarket giant found 64% of people had altered their behaviour behind the wheel as a result of the soaring cost of fuel. Over 2,700 people participated in the study at www.motorpoint.co.uk.
Prices at the pumps have jumped to a record average of 133.55p for unleaded according to the RAC, in spite of the 1p fuel duty cut in last month’s Budget. This is also borne out at Motorpoint where sales of fuel-efficient super-minis have rocketed in recent months with demand for models such as the Ford Fiesta rising by 30% alone since last month.
Says David Shelton, Managing Director of Motorpoint: “It is clear from our poll that the cost of fuel is starting to have an effect on the way in which people drive, a trend that is likely to continue unless the Government changes its motoring policies.”
How to change your driving habits!
. Don’t race through the gears to try and get to the speed limit as though it’s a target, gentle acceleration will save fuel and and change gear earlier so as to keep engine speed lower.
. Instead of racing up-to queuing traffic ease off the accelerator early to let the car roll and may be you won’t even have to stop.
. Make sure your tyre’s are correctly inflated as this can increase fuel consumption.
. Don’t see the speed limit as a target, leave early for your destination and keep below the speed limit within reason, this will take longer to get there but save fuel, pollution and engine wear.
. Take unnecessary items out of the boot, extra load adds to fuel consumption.
. Don’t leave roof racks on if you are not using them, more drag causes excessive fuel consumption.
Just a few idea’s ..roy