Census data insight shows us that 64% of the journeys made by car drivers are due to the lack of public transport or any active travel options.
Even though you are doing as much as you can to help the environment, you might still be wondering, how you could travel greener and more sustainably despite driving?
Public transport, walking or cycling your commute may not be possible for everyone, however, there are still plenty of ways to reduce the impact of driving a car.
Carry on reading for some more tips and advice we have put together for you.
Useful apps & websites
Here are some useful links and websites that could assist with you to travel greener with car.
Liftshare
By sharing the same or similar journeys with at least one other person, you can save money on the cost of car travel. Another benefit to lift sharing is that you can meet new people and make new friends. Sign up for free with Liftshare to find others travelling to the same places as you.
Car Clubs
We understand that perhaps sharing a car with a stranger might not be comfortable, or maybe that you work a very early or night shift. Car Clubs are rent by the hour or a day service that saves you the hassle of worrying about insurance, fuel and cleaning! Click here to read more about car clubs.
Car club vehicles will be coming to Henley Gate soon. Keep your eyes peeled!
Zap Map
This website has a wealth of resources about EVs. It also provides a map of all the electric charging points around the UK and is also available on the mobile app.
Energy Saving Trust
This is an independent organisation website that is working to address climate emergency. Energy Saving Trust has everything you need to know about an EV and active travel. It demonstrates the benefits, tips about charging your EV.
Eco Driving
Although driving a car can be the least sustainable way to travel sometimes, it can also be a necessity. Here we have some tips on how to save on fuel, money and air pollution when driving.
Maintenance:
♦ Be sure to check your tyre pressure regularly, especially before long journeys as under-inflated tyres will use up more fuel.
♦ Your car will be at its most efficient if it’s being regularly serviced.
Before you set off:
♦ Although handy to have when needed, roof-racks and boxes increase your fuel consumption, take them off if they’re not being used to reduce drag and save on fuel.
♦ Lose any unnecessary baggage, extra weight means extra fuel!
♦ Plan ahead and know where you’re going. Getting lost lengthens journeys and also means using up more fuel.
♦ Combine short trips, cold starts use more fuel so it pays to group your errands together when you can.
♦ Start your engine when you’re ready to set off on your journey, an idle engine wastes fuel and your engine will warm up quicker when you’re moving too.
On the road:
♦ Drive smoothly, accelerate gently and read the road ahead to avoid unnecessary braking.
♦ Stick to the speed limits, the faster you go the greater the fuel consumption.
♦ Cut down on the air-con; it increases fuel consumption at low speeds.
♦ Try to keep your car moving even at slow speeds as stopping then starting again uses more fuel than rolling.
♦ Newer car models (since 2014) have been fitted with gear shift indicators, these encourage you to use the most efficient gear for your speed. Try changing gears at an engine speed of 2,000 rpm for diesel, or 2,500 for petrol.
The Future is Electric!
By 2035, all cars produced will have to be electric or hybrid. Have you considered making your next car one of these?
There are several benefits to making the switch, including;
- Cheaper running costs
- Free or heavily reduced road tax
- Cheaper to maintain
- Better for the environment
If you are concerned about how expensive it is to get one initially, read Government’s guidance on the common misconceptions about electric vehicles here.
The Energy Saving Trust is also a great source for anyone who would like to know more about EVs. It covers everything about the types of electric vehicles, benefits of electric vehicles tools when buying an electric vehicle, advice on charging electric vehicles and more.
Car Sharing
Sharing your journey with others can save you hundreds of pounds each year and save tons of carbon emissions produced. Could you share your journey with friends, family members or work colleagues? Try Liftshare to find local sharing options!
If you want to see how much you could save by liftsharing, click the button below.