Take one lesson from fuel scare – learn how to drive

After days of queues at filling stations, many drivers could save up to ten per cent of the cost of putting fuel in the tank simply by adopting a smoother driving style.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: “Green driving techniques can easily improve fuel efficiency by up to ten per cent. In other words, if the monthly price of filling up is typically two tanks at £70 each, an advanced driver can save £14 a month.”

The IAM has some easy tips to reduce fuel consumption:

> Read the road ahead and try to anticipate what the traffic around you will do, for example at traffic lights, roundabouts and junctions. There’s no use accelerating hard away just to have to brake 50 yards on – both MPG killers. Cruise control is useful and economic for smooth driving on long journeys, but turn it off on hills.

> Stick to the speed limit. Reducing speed from 85mph to 70mph can save up to a litre of petrol every 20 miles.

> Switch off the engine if you are going to stop for some time at a level crossing or slow-changing lights. Small cars use 1.5p of petrol every minute and medium-sized cars lose petrol and money at double this rate.

> Lighten the load. Excess baggage or an empty roof box will increase your fuel consumption. Check that the contents of your boot are essential, and remove the roof box while not in use.

> Check your tyres. Underinflated tyres will increase your fuel consumption by up to three per cent. Check tyre pressures when the tyres are cold, at least once a month.