Better use of gears can help drivers save fuel according to the Department of Transport.

One of the key course techniques in an advanced driving course aimed particularly at white van drivers' is better use of gears.

By avoiding over revving and missing out unnecessary gear changes, drivers can not only reduce fuel consumption, they can also cut down wear and tear on the transmission.

Those of us taught to drive years ago were conditioned to move our way up and down the gear box systematically 4, 3, 2 and 1. But that's because vehicles in those days had inferior brakes and we needed to bring the cars to a halt by using the drag of the transmission.

These days "block changing" is recommended. Use the brakes to slow down, then, when the speed is right, choose the gear that is best for that speed. So you may move from fourth, say, straight to second, after you have finished braking. Brake pads are cheaper to replace than clutches. You can also block change to move up, skipping intermediate gears.

So remember "gears to go, brakes to slow".

For further information visit the IAM website at iam.org.uk