Motorists in the UK are collectively wasting millions of pounds every year by failing to drive in a fuel efficient way, warns a leading tyre manufacturer.

The average driver in the UK could save nearly £300 a year by using eco-driving techniques, according to research by Continental Tyres.

A survey found this adds up to over £1 billion a year for motorists in Britain, or the equivalent of £18,000 over the driving lifetime of a motorist (at today’s fuel prices).

The research found that although nearly 9 out of 10 people are concerned about the rising cost of fuel, 40 per cent admit to being clueless when it comes to eco driving, which if used correctly can save up to 20 per cent on fuel costs.

Tim Bailey, driving expert at Continental Tyres, said: “As fuel costs continue to rise, affordable motoring is a big concern. By making minor alterations to your driving technique and doing regular basic checks such as tyre pressure, motorists can save hundreds of pounds a year.

“Our research also discovered that over two thirds of motorists are unaware that tyres are now made that improve fuel efficiency through lower rolling resistance,” Mr Bailey said.

“At Continental we have developed a new tyre, the ContiEcoContact 5, that can save three per cent on fuel and increase tyre mileage by 12 per cent.”

The survey showed that 50 per cent of people fear further fuel increases will force them off the roads even though they rely on driving to get to work.

In terms of car-buying habits, 56 per cent of respondents rate environmental performance as an important consideration when buying a new car.

Seventy-eight per cent would consider buying a hybrid car, 71 per cent a biodiesel and 61 per cent would think about purchasing an electric car.

Eco-driving tips

Before you set off:

• 
  Check the pressure of your tyres regularly (every two weeks is recommended). The right tyre pressure means less rolling resistance – and therefore reduced fuel consumption and more environmentally friendly driving. Incorrect pressures can increase tyre wear and reduce safety.
• Get rid of unnecessary loads. This includes removing your roof rack when it is not needed – this alone can increase fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent. Empty roof boxes are also gas guzzlers – remove if you are not using them.
• Think whether a vehicle that you mainly use around town needs the spare tyre. A compressor with a tyre sealant like the ContiComfortKit is far lighter and saves room.
• Make sure tyres are properly aligned to reduce fuel usage. Avoid uneven wear which can require you to prematurely replace your tyres.
• 
  Plan unfamiliar journeys to reduce the chance of getting lost. Check the traffic news before you go to avoid delays.

While driving:

• 
  After starting the engine, set off immediately. Modern motors no longer need a warm-up. In winter, scrape the ice rather than leave the car running to clear the windscreen.
• 
  Always drive in the highest possible gear for the speed you are doing, but do not let the engine labour.
• Drive within the speed limit. The faster you go the more fuel you use. Driving at 70mph uses up to nine per cent more fuel than at 60mph and up to 15 per cent more than at 50mph. Cruising at 80mph on the motorway can use up to 25 per cent more fuel than at 70mph.
• Avoid “racing starts” at traffic lights. Accelerate gradually and move up the gears quickly.
• Drive with a little anticipation and put distance between your car and the vehicle ahead of you to avoid harsh and sudden braking. Your vehicle needs much more energy to start rolling again after slowing down.
• Only turn on air conditioning when it’s really needed. In summer, park in the shade or use a screen shade as this saves money on cooling down the car. Heated front and rear windows and demister blowers all use energy so make sure they’re off when you don’t need them.