Get on the road to greener motoring
Britain’s congested roads, combined with increased fuel prices, changes in Vehicle Excise Duty and the impact of the recession means eco-motoring makes sense for motorist’s wallets, as well as the planet. HPI’s CO2 Certificates have been designed to meet the needs of today’s motorists, helping used car buyers make considered purchase decision to cut costs and save the environment. HPI takes a look at the choices facing consumers and offers some top tips to eco motoring.
“As of 1 April 2010 changes to the VED system means vehicles are being taxed according to their CO2 emissions, putting the spotlight on the higher emission vehicles,” says Nicola Johnson, Consumer Services Manager for HPI. “HPI’s CO2 Certificate includes government tax bandings to help used car buyers make an informed purchase and avoid choosing a car liable to hefty new tax rates.
“Used car buyers need to be realistic about the sort of driving they are planning on doing before buying their next car. They should be thinking about what size of engine is really necessary and whether they drive short distances in town or longer journeys on the open road. This will affect the type of fuel vehicle buyers choose, as well as affecting the long-term motoring costs.”
Petrol vs Diesel?
Many motorists may not realise that although petrol engines give out more CO2, they produce less particulates than diesel engines, which are lighter on CO2 emissions. For those doing short urban trips in built-up areas, petrol engines are likely to be a better choice for emitting less pollutants, advises HPI, with diesel engines better suited to long, open road driving.
Calculate Running Costs
Buyers should also consider that larger vehicles and performance cars have higher running costs, as well as being more expensive to repair and insure. Added to this they are also likely to be more polluting and cost more to tax each year. When purchasing a larger or performance vehicle, make sure you do your research into the miles per gallon (mpg) you could expect and its tax band. As part of your HPI Check we will tell you the average fuel costs per year of the vehicle and its relevant tax band, keeping you informed of the running costs and environmental impact.
Consider the Alternatives…
Of course there are now alternative fuel types to the traditional petrol and diesel, including LPG, electric and hybrid vehicles. LPG is a low carbon content fuel that produces fewer emissions and can save motorists around 40% compared with petrol and 20% compared with diesel fuel costs. LPG vehicles gain discounts on London Congestion Charges and some parking schemes as well as cheaper road tax for some vehicles.
For the environmentally conscious motorist, electric cars may be the best option, as they have zero emissions at point of use. They are cheaper to run, costing around a penny a mile and they can have lower maintenance costs, as well as the added bonus of paying zero road tax and congestion charges. And with the new governments outlined policy for a recharging network for electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, this option has taken a step forward as a viable option for the UK motorist.
Hybrid cars are part battery-electric and part conventional cars and have proved to be the most popular alternative to conventional vehicles. They reduce fuel consumption by using electric power, but with a petrol engine as well, there is no need to worry about running out of juice. On European roads, hybrid vehicles can cut greenhouse gas emissions by around 25% compared to a petrol car.
Nicola Johnson concludes, “With so many choices facing motorists when it comes to making greener car buying choices that also suit their budget and lifestyle, it’s no wonder that people are unclear about the options. Our CO2 Certificate has been designed to help used car buyers gain access to clear and concise information at the point of sale, making it easier to compare vehicles and make informed decisions.
“Eco motoring is a major focus for manufacturers and consumers alike. The rising cost of fuel and road tax means greener motoring choices can also make a lot of sense for consumer wallets. Our guide to eco motoring offers drivers everyday changes they can make to the way they drive, helping to cut emissions and reduce fuel consumption.”
HPI’s Guide to Eco Motoring
Consider at the type of fuel you use. Diesel is more energy efficient than petrol.
Clear your car of unnecessary clutter – an extra 50lb of weight reduces the fuel economy of your car by up to 1%.
Check your tyre pressure is correct to reduce petrol costs by 10%.
Avoid over-revving, as higher revs use more fuel.
Reduce your speed. At 70mph a car consumes 30% more fuel than at 50mph.
Smooth and steady. Avoid stopping and starting, as this uses more fuel and produces more CO2. Anticipate the flow of traffic and keep a steady speed.
Idling increases emissions by 13 % so avoid doing it – switch off the engine if you can do so safely.
Driving in the highest gear appropriate and changing gear early can boost fuel economy by 10%.
Accelerate gently to reduce fuel consumption.
Open the window instead of using energy guzzling air conditioning, but close them at high speeds.