AA calls for graduated driving licensing for new drivers

 

The AA is calling on the government to introduce a Graduated Driver Licence (GDL) to protect newly qualified drivers, limiting newly qualified drivers from carrying peer-age passengers for the first six months after passing their test.

·         One in five young drivers crash within a year of passing their test and 1,500+ young drivers are killed or seriously injured each year.

·         72% of AA members think a graduated licence limiting passengers is good idea.

·         Call for a Graduated Driver Licence comes as the AA launches a motoring manifesto with five key pledges.

·         Safer roads, fixing potholes, scrapping smart motorways, helping EV transition, keeping costs down, and career paths for young people in the industry, are all included.

An average of five people per day are killed on UK roads and 82 are seriously injured, but one in five young drivers crash within a year of passing their test and 1,500+ young drivers are killed or seriously injured each year.

Its asking government to make five key pledges to improve Britain’s roads.

1.      Supporting drivers: keeping motoring costs low through fuel duty freeze, better fuel price transparency and reducing Insurance Premium Tax.

2.      Sustainable future: providing the right incentives, infrastructure, and information to support the switch to zero emission vehicles. For example, helping those without on-street parking by cutting VAT for on-street EV charging.

3.      Smoother journeys: addressing the pothole crisis with ring-fenced funds and use of technology for more permanent repairs. Scrapping the failed experiment of ‘smart’ motorways.

4.      Safer roads: reducing road deaths through setting clear targets, increased roads policing and addressing the tragedy of new driver deaths through graduated licences such as restricting passengers for six months after passing their test.

Strengthening the industry: providing support to the sector to enable greater investment in innovation and skills. Maintain push for regulations to allow access to vehicle data to improve the safety, convenience, running costs and environment via connected car services.

 

Experts Reveal How to  Overcome Driving Anxieties

Driving is a skill many of us take for granted. But for some, it’s a real source of anxiety..

Whether it’s the thought of merging onto the motorway, the fear of shifting from an automatic to a manual vehicle, or simply the worry of getting behind the wheel of your used car, driving anxieties are common.

Mental health coach Jeremy Schneider states: “Driving is challenging because it highlights the anxieties we feel about not feeling in control. But there are ways we can help ourselves when we feel that way – whether it is driving or in other life situations.”

Anxiety specialist Zoe Clews echoes this idea: “Parking, motorway driving, and driving at night can all be big triggers for nervous drivers simply because they require more focus and are therefore more intense. In all of these situations, which demand a higher level of control and concentration, there is more ‘scope’ in an individual’s mind for things to ‘potentially go wrong’.”

Sam Sheehan, a motoring editor at cinch, the UK’s leading online used car retailer, has teamed up with Zoe and Jeremy to help anxious drivers overcome their fears and be more confident on the road.

Motorway driving

A lot of drivers find motorways intimidating – it’s especially common in new drivers who don’t have much experience on them. Higher speeds, multiple lanes, and merging into traffic are some of the things people find stressful.

Sam Sheehan recommends easing into it and taking your time to get used to motorways: “There’s no rush to get comfortable driving on the motorway. It’s key to take your time and start with short trips when the roads are quiet, if possible. Don’t be afraid to ask a more experienced or confident driver to come along with you for support either.

“Before setting out, plan your route to decide where you’ll get on and off the motorway and brush up on lane discipline. When you get onto the motorway, stick to the left lane until you feel confident enough to overtake in the middle and right lanes.”

Going from automatic to manual

Research by Direct Line Group shows the number of people taking driving tests in automatic cars rose to 42% of all driving tests in 2020/21.

Sam Sheehan suggested this trend could be due to, “drivers feeling intimidated by driving manual” and that, “maybe tech is making us less likely to master or refresh manual driving skills.”

Also, 2.2 million people who learnt to drive in an automatic car are aged under 35, and younger drivers (18-24 years old) report the highest stress levels at 59%. That suggests young people could be so worried about driving a manual car that they avoid it completely and won’t have the chance to get over it unless they pass a manual driving test.

It can be the same for drivers who took their tests in a manual car but have been driving an automatic for some time, too. Relearning the skill may also make them feel apprehensive.

Sam Sheehan has offered some advice to those looking to make the switch and ease their anxieties:

“If you have a manual license, don’t be afraid to take your time to get back into using gears after driving an automatic.

“Start by practising during quieter times in a safe, open space such as an empty car park. This environment allows you to focus on the mechanics of driving a manual without the stress of traffic, while you rebuild your muscle memory.

“Practice regularly and be patient with yourself. It’s normal to stall or make mistakes initially, but with consistent practice, your confidence and skills will return.”

General Driving Anxiety

General driving anxiety can stem from a few things, including past negative experiences, fear of accidents, or lack of confidence. Overcoming these challenges takes a combination of mental and practical strategies.

The mental approach

Anxiety specialist Zoe Clews explains that the most common causes of driving anxiety include being involved in or witnessing a car accident. “The subconscious mind is your inner protector and doesn’t understand time. When you experience shock or trauma, it sets up a protective defence mechanism – anxiety – to keep you safe, even if the incident occurred decades ago.

“The individual may understandably start avoiding specific roads, like motorways, or driving altogether, as human behaviour tends to avoid perceived painful situations. However, the issue is that anxiety thrives on avoidance, causing the fear to grow.”

She also recommends self-talk as a way of working through this anxiety: “Our ability to bounce back from adrenaline spikes, catastrophising thoughts, panic attacks, and anxious moments comes from our self-talk.

“When we get anxious, we tend to judge ourselves harshly, often telling ourselves we are foolish for panicking over certain things. But the more we judge ourselves, the more anxious we become, creating a vicious cycle of anxiety and self-criticism.

“Learning to talk to ourselves in a kind, reassuring, and encouraging way when facing driving anxiety may feel strange and indulgent, but it is the foundation to overcoming your fears.”

Physical techniques

According to mental health coach Jeremy Schneider, one of the best ways to combat the physiological effects of anxiety is by breathing.

“We take about 20,000 breaths per day without ever thinking about it. But if we take a big breath in and then exhale longer than we inhaled, we will slow down our nervous system.

“For instance, breathe in for 5 seconds and out for 7 seconds. Do that for ten breaths and see how you feel and then repeat.”

Driving anxieties, whether specific or general, are more common than we might think. The key to overcoming these anxieties lies in preparation, practice, and patience.

Remember, it’s perfectly normal to feel nervous about driving, but with the right strategies and support, you can become more confident and relaxed.

 

 

Pay Per Mile Schemes: A New Way to Pay for Car Insurance

In today's fast-paced world, driving has become a normal part of life. But have you ever thought about how much you truly drive? That's where pay-per-mile schemes come into play. This fresh approach to car insurance charges you based on how much you actually drive. Let’s break it down!

What Are Pay Per Mile Schemes?

So, what exactly are pay per mile schemes? Simply put, these insurance plans charge you for each mile you drive. Instead of paying a flat fee, you pay a small amount for every mile you hit the road. This type of insurance is perfect for folks who don’t drive very often and want to save on costs.

How Do They Work?

Getting started with a pay per mile scheme is usually pretty simple. You sign up with an insurance company that offers this option, and they’ll often give you a device to track your mileage. Or, they might ask you to use an app on your phone to keep tabs on how much you drive. The less you drive, the less you pay!

For example, if you only drive 5,000 miles in a year, your bill could be much lower than someone who drives 15,000 miles. Isn’t that neat?

Who Benefits from Pay Per Mile Insurance?

Many people can benefit from pay per mile schemes. If you work from home, take public transport, or only drive on weekends, this insurance could save you cash. It's like only paying for the gas you use—why pay for a tank if your car’s mostly parked?

Moreover, this type of insurance can appeal to younger drivers or those with less driving history, where traditional insurance can be pricey.

Pros of Pay Per Mile Schemes

1. Cost Savings

One of the biggest perks is the potential for cost savings. If you drive less, you could see significant reductions in your insurance fees. Think of it like paying for your gym membership based on how often you actually go. If you rarely hit the gym, you shouldn't pay a high fee!

2. Encourages Safer Driving

With pay per mile schemes, there’s a built-in incentive to drive safely. Since you want to keep your miles low, smooth driving can lead to fewer accidents and claims. It’s all about driving with a purpose!

3. Environmentally Friendly

Less driving means less fuel consumption and fewer emissions. If you care about the planet, choosing a pay per mile scheme can help you feel good about your impact. You’re saving money and being kinder to Mother Earth at the same time.

Cons of Pay Per Mile Schemes

1. Not Ideal for Heavy Drivers

If you’re someone who drives a lot—like for work or long commutes—this option might not be for you. The costs could rack up quickly, and you may end up paying more than you would with traditional insurance.

2. Tracking Concerns

Some people may feel uneasy about being tracked. While most companies ensure your data remains private, the idea of someone always knowing where you are might not sit well with everyone.

Is Pay Per Mile Insurance Right for You?

To sum it all up, pay per mile schemes offer a modern solution to car insurance. They can save money, reward safe driving, and help the environment. Think about how much you actually drive before deciding if this type of insurance is the right fit for you.

In the end, it’s about choosing what works best for your lifestyle and budget. Are you ready to hit the road and only pay for the miles you use?

 

Pros and Cons of Learning to Drive in Automatic Car.

The latest data from the DVSA reveals that automatic driving tests are at an all-time high. There was an increase of  40%  in new drivers taking automatic driving tests since last year.

Here are some differences that should be taken into account when deciding whether to learn in automatic car or manual car.

When learning how to drive, there’s are many  decisions to be taken , one of them being the type of car you want to learn in. And it’s important to make the right decision for you.

The key difference between a manual and an automatic car is how much work you will need to do as a driver. In a manual car, there are three pedals – accelerator, brake, and clutch, using the gears to increase or decrease your speed.

In an automatic car, there are only two pedals – an accelerator and a brake, with the automatic gearbox doing the hard work for you.

So, with automatic cars seems doing all the hard work, it’s important to understand the pros but also the cons of learning in an automatic before taking final decision.

The pros of learning in an automatic car

1. No clutch control required

Being able to stop/start the car without the added stress of using the clutch can be beneficial for new drivers. As an automatic car will change your gears for you, you don’t have to worry about gear changes in busy traffic.

2. Automatic cars are more inclusive

Automatic cars are a great choice for those learning to drive who have physical disabilities or medical conditions. Especially for those who have limited mobility, the two-pedal option is a great choice instead of 3 and gear box.

3. Less risk of stalling

Something that is really common when learning to drive is stalling. There is very little risk of stalling an automatic as there is no clutch, which some learners prefer.

4. Easier to drive

An obvious pro is of course, that an automatic is easier to drive. With the car changing gears for you, this gives you more time to focus on manoeuvres and other aspects of the driving test.

The cons of learning in an automatic car

1. Higher car costs

Automatic cars are usually more expensive to buy than manual, so be prepared to pay a little more when it comes to buying your first car.

2. Expensive Driving Lessons

Generally  driving lesson rates for automatic cars are higher than manual cars and you can  pay around £10-20  per hour more for driving lessons in an automatic car.

2. More expensive to repair

With more advanced technology and complex mechanics, automatic cars are usually more expensive to repair. So, these costs are definitely something to budget in when planning to purchase your first automatic car.

3. Limitations in the future

If you choose to learn in an automatic, this does limit you to only driving automatic cars in the future. While electric cars continue to rise in popularity, passing your driving test in a manual car still offers more flexibility, as it allows you to drive both manual and automatic car models in the meantime.

Motorists to tax vehicle without log book and tax reminder letter

 

Motorists applying for a duplicate V5C (log book) can now tax their vehicle without needing to wait for their log book to arrive.

V5C - Log Book

DVLA has announced a new service update that allows motorists to tax their vehicle even if they have lost their V5C (log book) and their vehicle tax reminder letter (V11).

Previously, customers who had lost these documents would have had to wait up to 5 days for a replacement V5C to arrive, or phone DVLA’s Contact Centre to tax their vehicle. This latest update will allow customers to apply online for a new V5C and tax their vehicle at the same time.

This is the first time that DVLA has linked their online registration service with their online licensing service, allowing the customer to self-serve through the 2 digital channels in one seamless customer journey.

Julie Lennard, DVLA Chief Executive, said:

We are always looking for ways to improve our digital services to provide more convenience for motorists. This latest enhancement will enable customers who have misplaced or lost their V5C to get a replacement and tax their vehicle quickly and easily.

ECO DRIVING

             Fuel efficient driving

Fuel prices are rising, and we all care more about the planet. Learning how to drive more efficiently is key. This guide will show you how to save money on gas, help the environment, and make your road trips better. You'll learn the basics of driving without wasting fuel and see how it helps.

A serene landscape featuring a modern, sleek car driving along a winding road surrounded by lush greenery, with soft sunlight filtering thoughharmony between technology and nature, emphasizing smooth driving techniques and energy efficiency.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the core principles of eco-friendly driving for maximum fuel efficiency.
• Discover the financial and environmental benefits of adopting fuel-efficient driving habits.
• Learn practical driving techniques to improve your vehicle's performance and reduce fuel consumption.
• Optimize your driving routes and minimize unnecessary idling for enhanced eco-driving.
• Maintain your vehicle regularly to ensure peak performance and fuel economy.

Unlock the Secrets of Eco Driving

Learn the key ideas of eco driving to make your driving better for the planet and your wallet. This approach helps you use less fuel, emit fewer pollutants, and save money. It's all about making small changes in how you drive.

Understanding the Fundamentals

Eco driving means making your car work better, using less fuel, and driving in ways that save energy. By using eco-friendly driving techniques, you can make your car do more with less. This helps our planet and future.

Benefits of Fuel-Efficient Driving

Choosing to drive more efficiently can really help your wallet and the planet. Here are some big pluses:

• Less fuel used means you spend less money
• Lower emissions help keep our air clean
• Your car lasts longer and costs less to keep up
• Your car drives better and feels more fun

By learning the basics of eco driving and adding these tips to your daily drive, you're doing your part for the planet. Plus, you'll enjoy the perks of driving smarter and greener.

Pre-Trip Preparation for Maximum Efficiency

Before you start your trip, a few easy steps can make a big difference. They help your car use less fuel and reduce harm to the environment. By getting your car ready and planning your path, you're setting up for a drive that saves fuel and is better for the planet.

Vehicle Inspection Checklist

First, check your car carefully. Make sure these important parts are working well:

• Tire pressure - Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by up to 3%.
• Air filter - A clean air filter lets your engine work better, saving fuel.
• Engine oil level - Keep your oil at the right level for best lubrication.
• Fluid levels - Check and add fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and power steering as needed.

Mapping Your Route

Then, plan your route with saving fuel in mind. Use apps or online maps to find the quickest, least crowded way to your destination. Try to avoid extra turns and pick roads with fewer stop signs and traffic lights. These choices can really cut down on how much fuel you use.

Pre-Trip Preparation Checklist	Benefit
Properly inflated tires	Up to 3% improvement in fuel economy
Clean air filter	Enhanced engine efficiency
Optimal fluid levels	Reduced friction and wear
Direct, uncongested route	Fewer stops and starts, lower fuel consumption

Getting your car ready and planning your route are key to a fuel-efficient drive. These easy steps help you use less fuel and protect the environment. They're the basics for a successful eco-friendly trip.

Mastering Smooth Acceleration and Braking

Driving efficiently isn't just about keeping a steady speed. It's also about how you accelerate and brake. By changing how you drive, you can use less fuel and help the environment.

Gentle Acceleration Techniques

Fast acceleration uses a lot of fuel. So, it's key to smooth acceleration for eco driving. Press the accelerator slowly, building speed step by step. This saves fuel and makes your ride smoother for others in the car.

Braking Strategies for Fuel Savings

Just like with acceleration, how you brake affects your fuel use. Don't slam on the brakes hard, as it wastes fuel and wears out your brakes. Brake smoothly and think ahead to brake less often.

"Smooth acceleration and strategic braking can make a world of difference in your fuel efficiency, without compromising the driving experience."

Learning these tips helps you save on fuel and protect the planet. Every change in how you drive helps your car and the environment. So, make those small changes to make a big difference.

Maintaining Optimal Cruising Speed

Getting the most out of your fuel is not just about how you drive. It's also about finding the right cruising speed for your car. This "sweet spot" helps you balance speed and fuel savings.

Finding the Sweet Spot

The best optimal cruising speed for eco driving changes with your car's type and engine size. Most cars and light trucks do best between 50-60 mph. Going faster can make your fuel use worse because of air resistance.

To find your car's best speed, watch your fuel economy and try different speeds on the highway. You might see a big jump in fuel efficiency by going a bit slower.

Speed (mph)	Fuel Economy (mpg)
45	30
50	32
55	30
60	28
65	26

Sticking to your car's optimal cruising speed for eco driving helps save fuel and cut down on pollution. You won't lose much time either.

"The most important factor in achieving maximum fuel efficiency is maintaining the right cruising speed. By finding that sweet spot, you can save money at the pump and reduce your carbon footprint."

Eco Driving: Minimizing Idling and Excessive Speed

When it comes to saving fuel, think about how you idle and speed. These habits affect your car's fuel use and emissions. They can cost you money and hurt the planet.

Idling at lights or in lines uses a lot of fuel. In fact, studies show that idling for more than 30 seconds can use more fuel than restarting your engine. To save fuel and maximize fuel efficiency, try these tips:

• Turn off your engine if you'll wait more than 30 seconds.
• Avoid revving your engine or letting it idle when warming up. Modern engines warm up better while driving.
• Do all your errands in one trip to cut down on engine starts and stops.

Also, excessive speed wastes a lot of fuel. The more you speed, the more your car's drag increases, using more fuel. Experts suggest keeping speeds low and steady to save fuel.

Driving Behavior	Impact on Fuel Efficiency
Idling for more than 30 seconds	Wastes more fuel than restarting the engine
Driving at excessive speeds	Significantly increases aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption

Pay attention to how you idle and speed to reduce idling for eco driving and avoid excessive speed for fuel efficiency. This saves you money and helps the environment.

Harnessing the Power of Route Planning

Route planning is a key tool for eco-driving fans. It helps you map out your trip and make it more efficient. This way, you can save fuel and help the environment. Let's see how to use route planning to improve your eco-driving.

Avoid Traffic Congestion

Route planning helps you dodge traffic jams. Sitting in traffic uses more fuel and harms the environment. With apps that show traffic in real-time, you can find the best way around traffic. This makes your drive smoother and more fuel-efficient.

Optimize Your Route

It's not just about avoiding traffic. Think about road conditions, elevation, and traffic signals to plan a better route. This approach reduces stops, starts, and stops, boosting your fuel economy and making your trip greener.

Route Planning Strategy	Potential Fuel Savings
Avoiding traffic congestion	Up to 20%
Optimizing driving routes	10-15%

The table shows how route planning can save fuel. By planning your route, you can drive more efficiently and sustainably.

A see landscape featuring a winding road through lush green hills, with a digital navigation map overlay showcasing optimal routes for fuel-efficient driving. Colorful markers indicating eco-friendly checkpoints and smooth traffic flows, along with a backdrop of clear skies and sunlit sceney.

"The right route can make all the difference in your fuel efficiency and environmental impact. With a little planning, you can transform your driving habits and contribute to a greener future."

Maintaining Your Vehicle for Peak Performance

Keeping your vehicle in top shape is key for saving fuel and helping the environment. Regular check up helps your car use less fuel and be more eco-friendly. Here's a detailed guide to keep your car running smoothly.

Regular Maintenance Checklist

Following a regular maintenance plan is vital for vehicle maintenance for eco driving and regular maintenance for fuel efficiency. Here are important tasks to add to your routine:

• Check and maintain proper tire pressure. Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by up to 3%.
• Replace air filters regularly. Clean air filters ensure efficient engine operation and fuel combustion.
• Perform regular engine tune-ups. Optimizing engine performance can boost fuel efficiency by up to 4%.
• Change engine oil and fluids as recommended by the manufacturer. Well-lubricated components reduce friction and improve fuel economy.
• Inspect and replace spark plugs when needed. Faulty spark plugs can lead to misfiring, reducing fuel efficiency.
• Align and balance your wheels. Proper wheel alignment and balance can enhance fuel economy by up to 3%.

By keeping up with these key maintenance tasks, you can make sure your vehicle runs well and uses less fuel. Spending a bit of time and effort on vehicle maintenance for eco driving leads to big fuel efficiency savings over time.

"Proper vehicle maintenance is the foundation of eco-driving. It's the first step towards unlocking your car's full potential for fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability."

Eco Driving and Emerging Technologies

The automotive industry is bringing new solutions to make driving greener. They've introduced advanced technologies for eco-friendly driving. These include hybrid and electric vehicles and connected car features. They're changing how we drive for the better.

Hybrid and electric cars are getting more popular. They offer a greener choice than traditional cars. These cars use advanced batteries and electric motors. This cuts down on fuel use and emissions.

Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are also improving eco driving. Systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist help drivers. They keep speeds steady, cut down on harsh braking, and boost fuel efficiency.

A futuristic urban landscape featuring electric vehicles with sleek designs, solar panels integrated into roadways, smart traffic management systems, and charging stations, surrounded by lush greenery and innovative bike lanes, all under a clear blue sky.

Connected car tech is also making eco driving better. Cars with real-time traffic info and smart route planning help drivers. They avoid traffic jams and make choices that save fuel.

The future of eco driving is looking up. Thanks to new tech, drivers can enjoy greener driving. It's more fun and saves money too.

Conclusion

This guide has given you the key techniques and strategies for eco driving. By using these tips, you can save money on gas, lessen your environmental impact, and enjoy greener road trips. Every small change in how you drive can greatly reduce your fuel use and carbon footprint.

The article showed how crucial it is to know the basics, make the most of fuel-efficient driving, and use new tech to boost your driving skills. It covered everything from getting ready for a trip to keeping a steady speed. This guide has given you the knowledge and tools to drive more eco-friendly.

Keep working towards driving more efficiently and apply these eco-friendly driving tips to your everyday driving. Doing this will help the planet and also save you money and improve your driving experience. Embrace eco driving and be proud of your efforts towards a greener future.

FAQ

What is eco driving?

Eco driving, also known as fuel-efficient driving, is about using techniques to save fuel and cut emissions. It means driving smoothly and making smart choices to use less gas. This helps protect the environment.

What are the benefits of eco driving?

Eco driving helps you use less fuel, which means lower emissions and saving money. It makes driving better for the planet. By driving more efficiently, you help the environment and save cash on gas.

How can I prepare my vehicle for eco driving?

Get your car ready for eco driving by checking tire pressure and replacing air filters. Make sure your engine is tuned up. Also, plan your route to avoid traffic to save fuel.

What are the best techniques for smooth acceleration and braking?

For smooth driving, accelerate and brake gently. Don't speed up suddenly or brake hard. This saves fuel. Instead, accelerate slowly and brake early to coast to a stop.

What is the optimal cruising speed for eco driving?

Drive at 50-60 mph for the best fuel efficiency. Driving faster uses more fuel. Find a speed that balances driving well and saving gas.

How can I minimize idling and excessive speed?

Avoid idling and don't speed. Don't idle when waiting or speeding on the road. Drive at a steady pace to save fuel.

How does route planning impact eco driving?

Planning your route helps save fuel. Pick the quickest, least crowded route to your destination. This cuts down on time spent in traffic, saving fuel.

What vehicle maintenance tasks are important for eco driving?

Keep your car in top shape for better fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure, change air filters, and tune up your engine. Fix any mechanical issues to keep your car running well and saving fuel.

How are emerging technologies impacting eco driving?

New car tech like hybrids and electric cars is changing eco driving. These technologies improve fuel efficiency and give you feedback on your driving. They make driving greener and more efficient.