We're doing our bit to ensure every customer has an eco-conscious drive. Our vehicles are no more than six months old and are serviced regularly so they're always working at optimum efficiency. We also make sure the tyres on our vehicles are inflated properly so their engines don't have to work so hard.

If you care about a more eco-friendly drive too, you'll be pleased to hear there are a few simple ways you can make a difference.

Drive at a consistent speed

Accelerating and breaking hard will cut the efficiency of your drive by around 33%. That's because sudden stopping and starting requires more energy. Try and maintain a regular speed to get the most out of your fuel.

Change gears at lower revs

Over-revving wastes lots of fuel. If you change up a little earlier this will reduce your revs. If you're driving a diesel car, we suggest you aim to change up a gear when the rev counter reaches 2000rpm. For petrol, change up at 2500rpm.

Don't leave your engine running

It goes without saying, leaving the engine running will waste your fuel.

Save air conditioning for faster speeds

Below 50mph, it's much more fuel efficient to open the windows to cool down your car. Above this speed, opening your windows will increase drag, so opt for air con.

Keep moving in traffic

This is about maintaining a constant speed again. When you're in traffic, keeping to a crawl is better than stopping and starting your vehicle.

Use cruise control

Using cruise control on flat terrain provides a 7% fuel saving on average because it helps you maintain a steady speed. Avoid it on hilly roads though as this will cause your engine to speed up and slow down.

Plan your trip

The more direct your route and the less time you spend slowing down to figure out which way to go, the more efficient your drive will be. Why not ask about GPS navigation systems when you next book with Europcar?

Keep to the motorway speed limit

Travelling at 60mph on the motorway will improve your mileage by 7-23%. Go any faster and you'll be burning a lot more fuel.

Opt for higher gears

Lower gears give your car a boost of power. But more power uses more fuel. Try overdrive gearing when you're on the motorway and your engine will slow down reducing emissions.