Motorists could cut fuel bills by up to £40 simply by changing how they use the accelerator and brake pedals.
Experts say gentler use of the accelerator and brakes could slash petrol and diesel costs
New guidance from Vertu says aggressive acceleration and harsh braking can increase fuel consumption by as much as 40 per cent, particularly in stop-start traffic where repeated speeding up and slowing down wastes petrol and diesel.
With the cost of filling a 55-litre diesel car now reaching around £100, reducing unnecessary fuel use by 40 per cent could save drivers the equivalent of £40 per tank.
Vertu said one of the biggest causes of wasted fuel is accelerating towards the vehicle ahead before braking sharply when traffic slows.
Speaking to Birmingham Live, they said: “In congested traffic, many drivers accelerate towards the car ahead and brake sharply when it slows. This cycle is one of the biggest causes of fuel waste in heavy conditions.”
Experts say smoother driving, better anticipation and maintaining momentum where safe can significantly improve fuel economy.
Vertu advises motorists to avoid sudden pedal inputs and instead accelerate gently, brake progressively and look further ahead to react earlier to traffic conditions.
They added: “The best advice is to drive as smoothly as possible, gently using the steering, accelerator and brakes.”
Drivers approaching red traffic lights are urged to lift off the accelerator early rather than continue at speed and brake late, while easing off before bends can also reduce fuel waste.
The RAC explained that keeping the vehicle in gear while slowing down in many fuel-injected cars activates the fuel cut-off system, meaning little to no fuel is used during engine braking.
Motorists tackling hills are also advised to build gentle momentum before the incline, then ease off as they climb to reduce strain on the engine and lower consumption.
Fuel-saving techniques are becoming increasingly important as petrol and diesel prices remain high, with many households looking for simple ways to reduce motoring costs without changing vehicles.
Experts say smoother, more planned driving can also reduce wear on brakes, tyres and clutch components, potentially cutting maintenance bills as well as fuel spend.