Fuel efficient and Eco-safe driving introduced to test

New motorists will be advised on how to drive in a way that saves money, saves fuel and cuts emissions as part of their practical driving test.

Alongside this, Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick has also dedicated an extra £3 million to promoting smarter driving techniques that will help all motorists save on fuel costs. It also gives money-saving advice on new car purchasing.

A month's worth of fuel can be saved every year by following these techniques, and motorists could save 3 months' worth of fuel each year if they choose a more fuel efficient model when buying a new car.

Jim Fitzpatrick said: "To help the next generation of motorists drive in a way that is better for their wallets and the environment, the driving test will now assess how successfully they follow fuel efficient and eco-safe driving advice.

"Common-sense changes can make for major improvements. Drivers can save around a month's worth of fuel each year by taking simple steps, like ensuring their tyres are correctly pumped up, changing gear earlier to keep revs low and avoiding carrying unnecessary clutter in the boot.

"The ACT ON CO2 campaign's smarter driving tips have already proved highly successful and will help even more motorists to save money."

Millions of drivers have already benefited from this advice as part of the Government's successful ACT ON CO2 campaign. This extra £3m will help more drivers conserve fuel, preserve the condition of their vehicles for longer and lessen their impact on the environment.

The latest round of smarter driving tips have just been launched on radio stations across England, and a new television campaign will follow early next year.