IAM eco-driving tips reduce bank holiday fuel bills

Motorists will be heading off to enjoy the bank holiday this Friday. But since the Easter bank holiday, fuel prices have continued to increase so the IAM (Institute of Advanced Motorists) has put together some handy tips to help motorists reduce their bank holiday fuel bills.

Many round trips could be up to 500 miles long, the equivalent of driving from London to the Lake District, or Manchester to the South Coast, but there are many opportunities to make each litre last a little longer.

IAM Chief Examiner, Peter Rodger, said: “An additional 2p per litre doesn’t sound much but it will quickly add up.

“Simple measures such as looking well ahead and slowing down earlier, rather than always using the brakes to slow down can make a real difference - a smoother driving style is the single best eco-driving tip. This starts with safer driving and anticipation.”

Other money saving tips:

Sticking to 70mph, instead of 80mph, can save around four pence per mile; or £20 for the round trip

A smooth driving style rather than aggressive has been estimated to save 15 per cent fuel consumption

Top boxes can increase fuel consumption by 20 per cent – if it’s not needed, don’t take it

Correct tyre pressures reduce wear and helps fuel economy. Under-inflated tyres need replacing more often (itself an environmental problem), can increase fuel consumption by five per cent and can be dangerous. Check the pressure is right and they are tare free

Remember to switch off the air con and heated windows when they aren’t needed. Used together these can increase fuel consumption by 15 per cent