A former driving instructor and theory test preparation coach has shared a remarkably simple yet effective technique that could help motorists save a substantial amount of money on their fuel bills. Annie Winterburn, known online as @theorytestpractice, has urged all drivers, from learners to the highly experienced, to adopt this approach which she claims is not widely known among the motoring public.
The Smooth Driving Principle
In a recent social media video, Winterburn explained the core concept behind her fuel-saving advice. She emphasised that smoother driving habits, specifically gradual acceleration and looking well ahead to anticipate traffic conditions, can lead to significant reductions in fuel consumption.
"If you drive smoother, so you accelerate more gradually, and you look well ahead, and you see what's happening, then just come off your accelerator pedal to gradually slow down," Winterburn advised. "Gradually building up speed, gradually reducing speed - that can save fuel. It can save quite a lot of fuel, actually."
Potential Savings Revealed
The former instructor quantified the potential benefit, stating that adopting this smoother driving style could reduce fuel costs by approximately fifteen percent. She specifically highlighted this as valuable knowledge for learner drivers, noting that questions about fuel-efficient driving techniques frequently appear in the official theory test.
"Reduction in fuel consumption by about 15%," Winterburn revealed as the correct answer to such a test question. "So drive smoother, stop racing away and slamming your brakes on. Look well ahead, plan well ahead. And you will save yourself money overall."
Expert Validation from Motoring Organisations
This advice is not merely anecdotal; it is strongly supported by established motoring authorities. Experts at RAC Drive echo the same fundamental message, advocating for smooth and gentle use of vehicle controls to maximise fuel efficiency.
The RAC explains a crucial technical point: "When slowing down, it’s important to remain in gear as the fuel cut-off switch in a fuel injection engine is then activated, meaning virtually no fuel is used while braking." This underscores the importance of the technique beyond just driving style, incorporating correct gear usage.
The Cruise Control Consideration
The article also addresses another common fuel economy topic: the use of cruise control. According to RAC Drive experts, this feature is most beneficial for fuel savings on constant, flat surfaces like motorways, where it can maintain a steady speed efficiently.
However, they caution that on undulating roads, cruise control can inadvertently increase fuel consumption. "This is because your cruise control would be slower to react to gradient changes," the experts note, explaining that the system might apply power for too long when approaching a hill's crest, whereas a driver would instinctively ease off the accelerator.
Consequently, motorways are highlighted as the UK's most fuel-efficient roads, where drivers can maintain a constant high gear and gentle cruising speed, using minimal fuel. The combined advice from both the instructor and motoring experts presents a clear, actionable strategy for drivers seeking to reduce their running costs through more mindful and smooth vehicle operation.
