Green motoring techniques 'as economical as green cars'

Drivers could be just as likely to cut their motoring costs by changing their driving techniques as investing in a green vehicle, a consumer group has suggested.

An investigation conducted by Which? has highlighted that green vehicles - which are usually standard cars modified to offer lower CO2 emissions - may offer more miles to the gallon of fuel, but their list prices can be higher, offsetting any savings.

Additionally, the research showed that green vehicles took longer to slow down than their standard counterparts, which could be a safety consideration for eco car insurance policyholders.

In tests, the Soda Fabia Greenline 1.4 TDI model took 4.1 metres more to stop at 62 miles per hour than its ordinary sister vehicle. The situation was similar with the 2.0-litre TDI VW Passat BlueMotion, which need an extra two metres to brake in comparison with its less efficient version.

Which? motoring editor Richard Headland commented: "Eco cars are good for company car users who want to cut their tax bills, but their cost premium and driving compromises may prove too much for low-mileage drivers - especially when it comes to safety issues such as longer braking distances."

"Improving your driving technique is just as likely to cut fuel bills and CO2 and remember that it pays to keep your car and tyres in good condition," he added.

Green motoring techniques can include not braking too harshly, avoiding using air conditioning systems and removing roof racks when they are not being used.

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