Fuel economy: making every gallon count - Introduction

The motorist faces many ups and downs these days. As the temperature of the planet and fuel costs go up, we've all got to keep down fuel use and carbon dioxide output.

So how can we help? Well, for years drivers have followed the belief that they can improve their economy (and CO2) by driving at a magical optimum speed.

In fact, a poll of 1800 whatcar.com users revealed that 62% think the magic speed is between 50mph and 60mph. Are they correct? We asked fuel economy expert Peter de Nayer to help us find out the truth.