Eco Pods test begins

Heavy goods vehicles could become greener thanks to a new product which is being trialled in the North East.

The Eco Pod is an after-market device that claims to capture and recycle the energy released when a hydrogen-rich fuel, such as diesel, reacts with oxygen, improving efficiency and reducing pollutants from the exhaust.

Derek Foxcroft, managing director for Refreshco, the firm behind the product, said: “Provided there is also efficient driving, the device can save companies money.”

Fuel-saving gadgets

The Eco Pod is one of a number of devices that claim to save fuel and reduce emissions. The latest in-car navigation system will promote green driving by telling the driver when to change gear to maximise fuel economy and chastising the motorist who drives erratically, prompting some to dub it a ‘sat nag’ rather than a sat nav.

Vehicles equipped with video cameras, GPS and gyroscopes are currently building the three-dimensional map of British roads that will form the basis of the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).

The ADAS sat nav will give users a three-dimensional view of the road, including obstacles and road width. It is hoped that the system, which will be in shops within three years, will help prevent articulated lorries getting stuck in narrow country lanes.

What is green driving?

The term eco driving, or green driving refers to simple techniques and tips, which will encourage safer, more cost-effective and environmentally-friendly motoring.

Eco driving	… at a glance
Take it smooth	Avoiding harsh acceleration and braking saves fuel and reduces wear and tear – it leaves you feeling more relaxed, too
Anticipate	By looking as far as possible up the road it’s possible to reduce stop/start driving, thereby reducing fuel consumption and making you a safer driver into the bargain
Shed weight	Remove unnecessary clutter from your car and you will use less fuel
Improve your areodynamics	If you don’t regularly use your roof rack or top box, remove it as it’s reducing the efficiency of your car

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Twenty six years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance, travel insurance and breakdown cover while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.