Drivers, including car insurance customers, have been advised that smarter motoring can save them money.

This week's 2008 ALD Automotive/Total Excellium MPG Marathon proved "beyond doubt" that eco-driving can reduce the costs of motoring and carbon dioxide emissions, the organisers say.

If the improvements seen during the programme where replicated by all drivers in Britain, some £8.2 billion would be saved each year in fuel costs.

Eight vehicles trialled notched up more than 80 miles per gallon, with the Toyota Yaris coming out on top with 84.66mpg.

The event also showed that even so-called gas guzzling cars can give more miles than manufacturers state with economical driving.

"It's not what you drive, but how you drive that makes the difference," says event organiser, Ross Durkin.

He adds that the event has proved that skilled driving techniques work and have a "dramatic impact" on fuel efficiency.

This week Autoglym has advised motorists to protect the investment they make in their vehicles, such as car insurance, by keeping them in good condition.

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