UK drivers reduce fuel spending

British motorist have changed the way they drive over the past 12 months to cut back on the amount of petrol they use, according to research company, Mintel.

Mintel’s Cars reports finds 80% of motorists have altered their driving habits with as many as a quarter (24%) of Brits making five or more cost-cutting changes to the way they drive.

“While once it was all about conspicuous spending especially when it came to high performance gas guzzlers, now there is almost a sense of competition for who can be the thriftiest,” said Jim Clark, senior leisure analyst at Mintel.

“Most of the changes that Britain’s motorists made to their fuel consumption were in response to the soaring oil prices we experienced earlier in 2008. But the lessons learnt will now stand them in good stead for the 2p rise in fuel duty announced in the chancellor’s pre-budget report.”

Ensuring tyres have the correct pressure to maximise fuel efficiency is the most popular course of action, undertaken by 38% of drivers looking to cut down their petrol bill.

This also has the benefit of reducing tyre wear, another key consideration for cost-conscious consumers and those looking to improve their road safety.

A third (34%) of motorists now keep their air conditioning turned off and a similar number (32%) is trying not to carry unnecessary weight in the car.

And, although not everyone can give up using their car altogether, three in 10 (28%) say that they now walk, cycle or take public transport more often.

“In the absence of the entire nation throwing away their car keys, using less petrol or diesel is a realistic money saving compromise that most Brits are now willing to make,” said Clark.

When it comes to saving on fuel costs, men take a very technical approach such as checking tyres and keeping an eye on the rev counter, while women are much more likely to make adjustments to their lifestyle.

Mintel reports 30% of men cut back on weekend day trips in the car but this rises to 37% amongst women. Similarly, only 28% of men don’t drive as much to see friends who live far away, compared to 34% of women.