Imagine tea cup to cut fuel costs, drivers advised

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 16 Oct, 12:32 · Archive

Drivers are being advised to imagine a cup of tea on their passenger seat to adopt smoother driving habits and reduce fuel consumption.

Drivers are being advised to imagine carrying a full cup of tea on their passenger seat as a way to reduce fuel consumption. Car dealership Dace Motor Group said the visual trick encourages motorists to avoid slamming on brakes or rushing towards traffic lights, as the mental image of spilling the tea discourages sudden movements.

Smooth driving reduces fuel use because starting from a complete stop consumes more petrol or diesel than rolling towards queues or lights. Stamping on pedals and hard braking burn unnecessary fuel on every journey. Drivers are advised to plan ahead and ease off pedals earlier, and to decelerate smoothly by releasing the accelerator in time while leaving the car in gear.

Gentler driving also reduces wear and tear on tyres and braking systems. The AA confirmed driver behaviour plays a significant role in fuel economy alongside the type of vehicle used. In a previous eco-driving trial, AA staff cut their weekly fuel bills by ten per cent by adopting smoother habits. An AA spokesman said drivers should read the road ahead to avoid braking unnecessarily.

How it is being reported

• This simple trick could help drivers cut down on fuel use as pump prices soarDrivers are being advised to imagine a cup of tea on their passenger seat to save fuel.Oxford Mail · 16 Oct, 11:49
• This simple trick could help drivers cut down on fuel use as pump prices soarDrivers are being advised to imagine a cup of tea on their passenger seat to save fuel.Oxfordshire Guardian · 16 Oct, 11:49

In this story: Dace Motor Group · AA

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