Smooth driving techniques could boost fuel economy by almost 30%, saving motorists up to £265 a year
With fuel prices continuing to squeeze household budgets, Dacia is encouraging motorists to make every litre count by partnering with six-time Guinness World Record holder Kevin Booker to demonstrate how smarter driving can significantly reduce fuel consumption.
New research commissioned by Dacia reveals that 62% of UK motorists have driven less during the past three months as rising motoring costs continue to influence everyday travel habits. In response, the manufacturer has launched an initiative showing that substantial fuel savings can be achieved without changing vehicles—simply by adopting more efficient driving techniques.
Booker, who specialises in helping businesses and communities reduce vehicle running costs through eco-driving, has already achieved around a 29% improvement in fuel economy while testing the Dacia Duster Journey Hybrid 155. The result effectively increases the SUV’s official combined fuel economy from 61.4mpg to approximately 79mpg under real-world driving conditions.
For the average UK motorist, that improvement could translate into annual fuel savings of around £190, while drivers covering 10,000 miles a year could save approximately £265, based on current petrol prices.
Efficiency Comes From Driving Smarter
Rather than relying on a single fuel-saving trick, Booker says the biggest gains come from combining smoother driving with better anticipation, correct vehicle preparation and making full use of modern hybrid technology.
“The Dacia Duster Journey Hybrid 155 is a particularly rewarding vehicle to drive efficiently because it gives motorists several opportunities to influence fuel economy,” said Booker.
“It’s surprisingly lightweight for an SUV and its hybrid system captures energy extremely effectively through regenerative braking. By reading the road ahead, avoiding harsh acceleration and allowing the hybrid system to work as intended, drivers can make a noticeable difference. Efficiency isn’t just about the car you buy—it’s about how you drive it.”
Drivers Already Changing Their Habits
Dacia’s nationwide survey highlights how rising motoring costs are already influencing driver behaviour.
The research found that:
- 62% have reduced how much they drive.
- 63% now only use their car when necessary.
- 44% consciously maintain steady motorway speeds to improve fuel economy.
The findings suggest UK motorists are increasingly looking for practical, low-cost ways to reduce running expenses without sacrificing mobility.
Hybrid Technology Helps Maximise Savings
The Duster Hybrid 155 combines a petrol engine with two electric motors, allowing the vehicle to operate on electric power alone during many urban journeys. Its regenerative braking system also recovers energy normally lost during deceleration, improving overall efficiency without requiring external charging.
Kevin Booker’s Top Fuel-Saving Tips
Drivers can improve real-world fuel economy by adopting a few simple habits:
- Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic to reduce unnecessary braking and acceleration.
- Remove unnecessary weight and roof racks to reduce drag and improve efficiency.
- Maintain a consistent motorway speed instead of constantly accelerating and overtaking.
- Check tyre pressures regularly, as under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance.
- Use hills intelligently, maintaining momentum where safe and making full use of regenerative braking downhill.
- Approach corners smoothly, reducing wasted energy from heavy braking and acceleration.
- Keep the vehicle properly maintained, ensuring servicing, correct oil and quality components help maximise efficiency.
Dacia: Affordable Motoring Remains the Priority
Lina Ribeiro, Dacia UK Brand Director, said the initiative reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to affordable, practical motoring.
“Dacia has always been about giving people the freedom to explore without asking them to spend more than necessary. With family budgets under pressure and summer holidays approaching, the Duster Hybrid 155 offers the practicality, efficiency and robustness families need. Combined with Kevin’s advice, drivers can travel further while spending less.”
Motoring Echo Insight
With hybrid and electrified vehicles becoming increasingly common, understanding how to maximise their technology is likely to become just as important as choosing the right model. Eco-driving skills are no longer reserved for fleet operators—they’re becoming an essential tool for every cost-conscious motorist.
