LEMBIT ÖPIK MP TAKES ECO-DRIVING CHALLENGE AT LIB DEM PARTY CONFERENCE

1.11.29pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 24th Sep 2009

Lembit Öpik MP earlier this week took a smarter driving challenge set up by the Energy Saving Trust at the Liberal Democrat Party Conference in Bournemouth.

Using smarting driving techniques, Lembit Öpik, the MP for Montgomeryshire, managed to save 10 per cent on fuel when driving a designated course near to the Lib Dem conference centre in Bournemouth.

Commenting Lembit Öpik MP said:

"By following a few simple tips from the Energy Saving Trust's driving instructor I was able to change my driving habits, save fuel and so save money. I'll be putting these tips to good use.

"I am delighted to support the Energy Saving Trust's smarter driving campaign - it reminds us of the importance of taking small steps to save energy in our daily lives. This is not only good for reducing our carbon emissions, but also good for the pocket: a welcome boost for everyone in the current economic climate."

Ends/diwedd

Notes:

Smarter Driving focuses on four key pieces of advice for motorists. These are:

1. Shift to as high a gear as possible: driving at lower engine speeds reduces fuel consumption: change up between 2000 and 2500 rpm.

2. Anticipate road conditions and drive more smoothly: rather than last minute braking, decelerate smoothly be releasing the throttle as early as possible. This allows the car to decelerate using engine braking. With the car in gear and throttle release, a modern car uses virtually no fuel at all.

3. Maintain a steady speed in as high a gear as possible: driving at a steady speed requires little effort for the engine. Avoiding unnecessary acceleration and heavy braking helps reduce fuel consumption.

4. Drive a little slower than your normal speed: stick to the speed limits and make your fuel go further. For most cars the most efficient speed is between 45 and 50mph. Driving at 50mph rather than 70 mph reduces your fuel consumption by 10 per cent at a stroke.

About The Energy Saving Trust

The Energy Saving Trust is the UK's leading independent organisation working in the UK to help people save energy and reduce their personal CO2 emissions - the main greenhouse gas causing climate change - from their homes. They promote the efficient use of energy and a more low carbon lifestyle.

Visit : www.energysavingtrust.org.uk