As the tax increases on fuel start to hit our wallets, we start to rethink if we need to use our vehicles quite as much. For some, however, there is no alternative and we have to use our own transport. For all drivers though, there are some actions that can be taken to give us the most out of a tank of fuel.

The Highways Term Maintenance Associations The Green Driving Booklet outlines some useful tips, some which may seem obvious but are often forgotten or are ignored by drivers.

Vehicles perform much better if they are well maintained. A well tuned engine can improve fuel economy by up to four percent and properly inflated tyres that are in good condition can improve fuel efficiency by as much as three percent. Check that the fuel cap seal is air tight to prevent evaporation of fuel and use the correct oil for maximum fuel efficiency. Faulty wheel alignment will slow rolling resistance that in turn will increase fuel consumption as will carrying unnecessary weight. For every extra 45kg of weight carried, fuel efficiency drops by one to two percent. So clear out the boot of the vehicle.

Carefully planning the route for the journey can reduce travel time by avoiding congested areas; fitting as many jobs as possible in one trip or car sharing are the obvious measures to take to reduce the number of miles being clocked up amount of fuel being used.

Driving techniques and behaviour can also help to make a tank of fuel last longer. Fuel efficiency drops significantly over 60mph as more wind resistance is built up; driving a bit slower will improve the efficiency. Aggressive driving and revving the engine can use as much as a third more fuel than smooth acceleration and braking. Air conditioning reduces fuel economy by eight to ten percent as it puts added strain on the engine, so limited use on particularly hot or cold days will use less fuel. An idling engine gets you nowhere, but still uses fuel. Turn off the engine when sitting in a queue, waiting for someone or until you need to move.

A spokesperson from HTMA commented, "By following this simple guidance, not only will drivers be helping to reduce CO2 emissions and the UKs carbon footprint, but they will also be makeing the money spent on fuel last longer."

Download a copy of The Green Driving booklet