Promoting environmentally friendly methods of driving, such as sensible acceleration, braking and optimum tyre pressures could help reduce the overall carbon emissions of vehicles, according to a new report by the Commission for Integrated Transport.

The independent transport advisor to the government advised smart drivers to adhere to speed limits, drive with windows closed to reduce drag and avoid leaving the engine running while in heavy traffic.

Alec Murray, chairman of the Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMIF), said: "It makes sense that the reduction of vehicle CO2 emissions goes hand in hand with encouraging motorists to drive their cars in a way that helps the environment.

"The motor industry is working hard to reduce emissions and is constantly developing new technologies to help this process, but good motoring behavior can only bring further benefits."

He noted that the practical driving tips would not only benefit the environment, but reduce strain on the car making it more efficient.

According to road tax figures published in June, motorists are increasingly purchasing cars in the lower tax bands with less carbon output. In the 12 months up to June, 60.7 per cent of new vehicles fell into bands A to D, containing cars with emissions of less than 165g per kilometre.

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