Smart driving techniques save money, save fuel

THE winning van in the recent TOTAL ECO 10 MPG marathon was a Citroen Nemo averaging an astonishing 75.8mpg. It is the second successive year that the Nemo has won the event.

The TOTAL ECO 10 MPG Marathon is a 360 mile, two-day challenge around the Midlands that proves skillful eco-driving can increase safety, reduce fuel costs and cut CO2 emissions.

The Nemo van was driven by van journalist John Kendall with co-driver Dr Paul Nieuwenhuis from Cardiff University.

"The Nemo returned 75.8mpg over a particularly tough route, which included many miles in the hills of the Welsh borders. As well as ensuring that the Nemo delivered optimum economy, we had to maintain a respectably high 30mph average speed to avoid penalties," said John.

"The Nemo's quick-shifting SensoDrive automated manual gearbox meant we could guarantee the right gear every time to keep both economy and timings under tight control," added John.

Gemma Shepherdson from TOTAL commented: "The TOTAL ECO 10 MPG Marathon is such a great way to showcase how clever driving, quality vehicles and advanced fuels and lubricants can work together to make a big impact on fuel economy."

Overall MPG – Top Three Vans

• Citroen Nemo Sensodrive 75.80mpg
• Peugeot Bipper S 1.4 Diesel 67.32mpg
• Volkswagen Caddy EcoFuel 59.40mpg