RoSPA Press Office : Press Release
March 12, 1999
‘GREEN’ DRIVING BRINGS CASH AND SAFETY BENEFITS
A new Greener Motoring Guide to help motorists look after the environment while practising safer and more economical driving is being launched today by The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.
The aim is to give advice and information to drivers on ways of reducing motoring costs and lessening the impact on the environment which their driving may have.
Bob Smalley, RoSPA chief driving examiner, said: "Increased fuel charges announced in the budget mean companies will need to make other savings to keep their prices down. Combining advanced driving techniques with tips contained in RoSPA’s Greener Motoring Guide, can help to reduce the amount of fuel used."
Areas covered include how to choose the most suitable car for individual driving needs, and setting targets for how much fuel is used in a certain time. The main points are summarised by the five S’s which are:
SAFETY: Hard, fast driving burns up tyres and fuel and causes more pollution. Safe, unobtrusive driving shows more skill and earns more respect.
SMOOTHNESS: Driving smoothly saves wear and tear on the car, leading to better fuel economy. Accelerate gently and avoid heavy or sudden braking.
SYSTEMATIC: Plan your driving well ahead, choose the best route and best position. Observe what is happening well ahead and in your mirrors.
STYLE: Drive with a calm, patient, caring attitude, not being aggressive or competitive. Enjoy the drive and relax.
SPEED: Speed is always related to safety and the faster you go, the more fuel you use up. Killing your speed saves lives, money, and the environment.
The booklet also features driving advice and takes a look at RoSPA’s advanced driving courses. It has been produced in association with the Hertfordshire County Council Road Safety Unit.
