• Drive at posted speed limits. This is a tip that may save a life as well as fuel. EPA estimates a 10-15 % improvement in fuel economy by driving 55 instead of 65 mph. On the highway, use cruise control whenever possible.

• Check your tires. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. They also wear more rapidly. Check the vehicle door-post sticker for minimum cold tire inflation pressure. Keep tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure - this alone can reduce the average amount of fuel use by 3-4 percent.

• Avoid piling a lot of luggage on the roof rack. This reduces aerodynamics and can reduce fuel economy by up to 5%.

• Don't drive at higher speeds with windows wide open. It decreases vehicle aerodynamics on highways and lowers fuel economy.

• Maintain your vehicle. A properly tuned-up engine will run more efficiently. Keep the wheels aligned. Wheels that are fighting each other waste fuel.

• Replace air filters as needed. Consult the owner's manual for the recommended schedule.

• Use good quality oils with the viscosity grade recommended in the owners manual.

• 40% of UK trips are less than 3 miles. Catalytic converters take at least 6 miles to become effective. Try to link together necessary car journeys rather than making many small trips.

• Switch off or turn down air conditioning and heating

• Once the engine is warm, turn it off if you are going to stop for longer than a minute.

• If you're stuck in a jam, switch the engine off if you expect to be there for more than a minute or two. Cutting the engine will save fuel and reduce emissions

• The most efficient speed depends upon the car in question but is typically around 55 - 65mph. Faster speed will greatly increase your fuel consumption

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