Good driving techniques will help to keep fuel economy under control but by far the most important factor in the reduction of fuel consumption is the driver. The rule is simple: slow down and take it easy.

Here are some tips and guidance on how motorists can obtain the best possible fuel efficiency from their vehicle:

Drive smoothly. Aggressive driving can use as much as a third more fuel compared to conservative driving. Avoid accelerating or braking too hard, and try to keep the steering action as smooth as possible.

Use higher gears. The higher the gear, the lower the engine speed. This can improve fuel efficiency, so use the highest gear appropriate, without causing the engine to labour at an ultra-low rpm. Automatic transmission vehicles will upshift through the gears more quickly and smoothly if the driver eases back slightly on the accelerator when the car has gathered sufficient momentum.

Tune and service the engine. A well tuned engine can improve fuel economy by up to four per cent. Change the oil and always follow the car manufacturer's recommendation on servicing.

Keep the tyres at the correct pressure. Correctly inflated tyres are safer and last longer, and they also reduce the amount of energy required to keep the vehicle rolling. A tyre that is under inflated by just 69 millibar (one psi) can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as three per cent.

Avoid carrying excess weight. For every extra 45 kilograms carried in a vehicle, the fuel efficiency can drop by two per cent, so keep the trunk and rear seat clear of any unnecessary items that just add weight to the vehicle.

Take the roof rack off. If the roof rack or roof bars are not being used, remove them. They adversely affect the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle and create drag, reducing fuel economy by as much as five per cent.

Use the correct engine oil. Always use the recommended grade of motor oil. Using the manufacturer's recommended lubricant can improve fuel efficiency by one or two per cent. Higher quality motor oils can also help your engine operate more efficiently.

Avoid excess idling. Idling gets a vehicle nowhere but still burns fuel. Turn the engine off when you're in a queue, or waiting for someone, until you need to drive.