Driving economically eases fuel consumption, so not only will your vehicle produce less harmful emissions, you’ll also save money on fuel costs.

If you face a long daily commute to and from work or are taking your car away on holiday, the financial benefits can be significant.

Here are some top tips on how to make your money and petrol go further:

Weight

Don’t carry any unnecessary weight in, or on, your car. The heavier your car, the harder your engine will have to work – and subsequently the more fuel will be consumed. If you don’t need that toolkit or oil in the boot remove it!

If your car is fully laden, try to keep luggage on your roof rack as low as possible. This helps to minimise the aerodynamic drag which increases fuel consumption. Using a roof box can help to reduce drag, but remember to remove luggage racks when not in use.

Don’t idle

Leaving your engine to idle in stationery traffic burns your fuel quicker, so switch your engine off!

Similarly, don’t use air-conditioning, heated seats and other electronic components when they are not required.

As an alternative to air-conditioning, fully open your vehicle’s air vents. Don’t open the windows as this creates drag, making the car work harder and use more fuel.

Drive carefully

Planning ahead will help reduce your emissions and fuel consumption.

Accelerate gently and smoothly, anticipating traffic lights and roundabouts well in advance to avoid harsh braking. The less starting and stopping you have to do, the less fuel your vehicle will use.

Remember to change gears early, keeping the revs down below 3,000rpm. Drive in as high a gear as possible without the engine struggling and use downward slopes to your advantage by starting the car in second gear where possible.

When you are slowing down with your throttle closed the car will shut off the fuel till you start to accelerate again.

Check your tyres

Check your tyre pressures on a weekly basis.

The recommended pressures can normally be found in the vehicle handbook, or on the frame of the car inside the driver’s door.

Keeping your tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommendations is essential to get the best possible fuel economy from your car.