Be a green driver

17/01/13

With so much of today’s news focusing on the environmental effects of the modern world – as global warming reaches an all-time high and hours upon hours of news coverage is dedicated to the fight against pollution – any driver should be keen to do their bit, especially as the potential to save money by going Green is huge.

When buying your car, consider how powerful you really need it to be. A 4x4 is all very well and good for traversing the treacherous terrain of the countryside, but if all you’ll be doing in your new car is commuting and school runs, it might not be necessary to shell out so much for a powerful engine. As long as there’s room in the boot for the weekly shop, or a couple of suitcases if you’re planning a last-minute trip, you shouldn’t worry too much about the car’s size.

Car manufacturers regularly publish statistics on the fuel economy of their cars; something which becomes more and more important as the price of fuel rises. In particular, buyers should look out for the MPG figure quoted in the brochures or online – the higher the Miles Per Gallon which a car runs on, the better. Not only does higher fuel efficiency lead to less harmful emissions, it’ll also save you money on refuelling in the long run. The initial cost of the car will probably be higher because of the more sophisticated technology used in the car but you’ll recoup this through lower petrol bills in no time at all.

Now that you’ve got the car you were looking for, simple changes to the way you drive can also make an important difference, such as limiting the air conditioning or switching off the engine in stationery traffic. Your engine will continue to burn fuel even when you’re not moving, as will cranking up the air con – so think about the pressures you put on your engine and try to change your habits.

Just by taking under consideration which car you drive and how you drive it will have a positive effect on the environment – a sure sign that all drivers could stand to Think Green now and then!