With petrol and diesel prices soaring to new highs and a possible further rise in April, road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist is encouraging motorists to be as fuel efficient as possible and has come up with some top tips to make your tank last longer.

David Williams, MBE, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist comments, “We have never seen such a significant increase in fuel prices largely due to the VAT increase as well as high global oil prices.

“There are however, some steps that the everyday motorist can be taking to be as fuel efficient as possible and ensure they are getting every penny’s worth.

“Many of the tips are quite simple, yet many people do not realise just how much of an impact they could have.”

Ten top tips for fuel efficient driving:

1. It may sound obvious, but ensure your car is well maintained. A poorly tuned engine could be using up to 50 per cent more fuel.

2. If possible, travel at times when queues are shortest. Sitting in congestion uses up more fuel.

3. Eliminate short journeys if practical. Walk or cycle to the end of the road to pick up the paper. Not only will you be saving fuel, but getting that extra bit of exercise will make you feel better too.

4. Don’t carry unnecessary weight. Check you have got only the essentials in your boot and take off the roof rack if you don’t need it.

5. Look at the option of car sharing with your friends and family particularly on the school run. Not only is it more fuel efficient, it will also help congestion.

6. The majority of cars run at their most efficient at 60mph. Every five mph above that you drive, you will lose six per cent of your fuel economy. Consider this saving when you are driving on the motorway and nearing the speed limit.

7. Make sure you know where you are going. An estimated 350,000 tonnes of fuel is wasted every year by people being lost.

8. Driving smoothly is much more efficient. Hard accelerating and sudden braking could use up to 40 per cent more fuel according to research.

9. Consider changing your car to a smaller, greener car. Take a look at your most common journeys and assess whether you could benefit from a change of vehicle.

10. Consider whether it is absolutely necessary to take the car. The bus or train is much more efficient and can often be quicker, especially during rush hour traffic.

For further information on GEM Motoring Assist and even more driving tips please visit www.motoringassist.com.