Lower fuel bills, despite the budget?

The Budget has put off the 2p rise in fuel duty - but it is only a delay until October, when motorists will be looking at paying £5 a gallon for petrol.

We can't do much about the Budget - but hard-pressed motorists can use this as a spur to adopt "eco-driving" techniques, promoted by the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists). Driving experts say that just a few small changes to driving habits could reduce our fuel consumption by 8.5 per cent, and shave £120 off the annual fuel costs.

Ask yourself: "Do I really need to drive?" It's the shortest journeys - less than two miles – which cause the most pollution and are inefficient in terms of fuel consumption. A straining cold engine will produce 60 per cent more pollution than a warm one. Yet it's these shorter journeys that are ideal for walking or cycling.

Plan your route. A bit of forethought can save much wear and tear - for the car, and the driver. Try to take the most direct route and go off-peak if possible. Sitting in congestion means you are often doing zero miles per gallon. If you have to commute by car, think about car sharing, Park and Ride schemes or public transport.

Check your tyres. Correct tyre pressures will keep wear down and fuel economy up. Under-inflated tyres need replacing more often (itself an environmental problem) as well as being dangerous. Anybody who has cycled on under-inflated tyres will appreciate how much extra effort is involved! Make a point of checking them at least once a week.

Obey the speed limits. Try to "feather" the throttle as you reach your cruising speed. Doing 56mph uses 25 per cent less fuel than 70mph and a smoother driving style can bring significant fuel saving. But never coast to save fuel; vehicle control must not be compromised.

Reduce the drag factor by removing roof racks and carriers when not in use. Driving with the window open also increases drag and lowers fuel economy. Remove unnecessary boot luggage, avoid heavy accessories and wide tyres that add rolling resistance. Air conditioning lowers fuel economy so use the vent settings as much as possible instead.

Use “accelerator” sense. Do you go straight from the accelerator to the brake? You would save fuel if you planned ahead, and rather than have to brake as you hit traffic, gently let the speed of the vehicle bring you to a halt as you join a queue. There is no point in rushing and then having to brake to come to a sudden halt.