Immediate Release

Eco Driving Assists Environment

Reduce emissions, cut fuel use and save money by driving better" says NZ Motoring Writers' Guild president Jacqui Madelin.

Madelin - a front-runner in several NZ fuel economy events - suggests New Zealanders honour World Environment Day by thinking more carefully about their driving.

"Not everyone can choose to walk, cycle or take public transport," Madelin says, "but we can all help the environment and ourselves by driving more carefully and paying attention to vehicle maintenance."

Regularly checking tyre pressures makes tyres last longer - reducing their impact on the environment and your wallet. Not only does tyre care prolong tyre life and delay costly replacement, it reduces the load on your car, and therefore fuel use.

"Following your car's maintenance schedule prevents unnecessary breakdown and helps your car run more efficiently too," she says.

And let's not forget frugal driving habits. Look ahead - there's a traffic queue or junction? Ease off early. Stick close to the speed limit - as speed rises, so do fuel costs.

"Even leaving unnecessary clutter at home to lighten the car, removing roof racks to reduce drag, closing your windows and using your air conditioning instead - and making sure that air conditioning has been properly serviced - will cut driving costs, and therefore related environmental costs," Madelin says.

Such measures also make you safer - a properly maintained car will handle and stop better, and looking ahead and anticipating can help you avoid potential trouble.

"Driving is a matter of constantly making good decisions," Madelin says. "Make the right ones and you'll not only steer clear of unnecessary danger, but unnecessary costs, too."

ENDS

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