Driven to Cost Cutting Measures
Writes Dan Drage dan.drage@consumerchoices.co.uk
Drivers desperate to save fuel are turning to some novel methods according to Saga Motor Insurance.
With petrol and diesel prices rising 20% in the past 12 months and the credit crunch forcing a tightening of belts, the Saga research shows over 90% of drivers are taking steps to reduce the cost of motoring.
However the study shows that, in their desperation, drivers' fuel saving efforts may be misguided.
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"A desperate 6% of drivers hope that switching off the radio, or even changing the music they listen to, will save cash at the pumps"
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One in six (15%) motorists incorrectly think that spreading the weight in the car, i.e. making passengers sit in the back will reduce fuel consumption. Another misguided one in ten (10%) think that filling up in the morning when petrol is cold will help and a desperate 6% of drivers hope that switching off the radio, or even changing the music they listen to, will save cash at the pumps.
Sensibly, the majority of drivers are adopting more traditional methods of reducing petrol consumption:
- Switching off air-conditioning (54%)
- Removing roof rack (46%)
- Only driving to within permitted revs (44%)
- Closing windows (33%)
Whereas the top four fuel conserving myths are as follows:
- Distributing passenger weight around the cabin
- Wearing soft footwear
- coasting whenever possible; modern cars cut fuelling when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator.
Andrew Goodsell, Chief Executive of Saga Group, commented:
"It's quite clear that people are feeling the financial strain every time they fill up their vehicle. By taking on board a few simple tips, they can dramatically cut their fuel bills.”
Chris Eagle, Commercial Manager at CreditChoices.co.uk, has another tip:
“Check petrolprices.com before making your journey. The site will locate the most economical petrol pumps in your area, saving you precious money on fuel.”
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