Drivers don't know CO2 emissions

Most British motorists have no idea about the level of CO2 emissions that come from their car, according to new research commissioned by the Environmental Transport Association (ETA).

London motorists are the most 'clueless' with 68 per cent of drivers saying that did not know what the figure was, while the 56 per cent of Scottish drivers were aware of their car's effect on the environment.

Andrew Davis, director at the ETA, lamented that the message of climate change was not getting through to drivers.

"The debate about emissions and climate change moves on but the results of our survey show it may be leaving people behind," he said.

Experts say that increasing fuel efficiency will help to cut down on the costs of driving and its impact on the environment.

They suggest a number of measures including reducing the weight of the car by taking off roof racks when not in use, avoiding harsh accelerating or braking and using air conditioning sparingly.