How we could save 173 million gallons of diesel

Researchers for Kwik Fit have assessed the latest government national car population data. The researcher found that by replacing all diesel cars over 10 years old could save around 173 million gallons of diesel per year. That's a lot of diesel.

Motorists nationwide are currently driving around 30.2 billion miles each year in approximately 3,476,000 diesel cars first registered in 2007 or earlier. That is an average of 8,676 miles each. But, if these same journeys were made in brand new diesel cars, the total savings on fuel costs would be in the region of £947.8 million per year. With this potential reduction in fuel consumption would come a significant drop in emissions.

Nitrous Oxide or NOx emissions from this group of older cars would fall by 8.2million kg that is by 68% in comparison. Particulate Matter (PM), would fall by 970,000 kg, an 80% decrease. It furthers the calls for scrapping older cars which at best, met Euro 4 emissions limits and replacing them with those vehicles meeting Euro 6 requirements.

Communications Director for Kwik Fit,  Roger Griggs, said:

“There has been a lot of discussion about the potential impact of a scrappage scheme in the fight to reduce emissions. This analysis reveals the impact which a national scrappage scheme could have on emissions, assuming the older diesel vehicles were permanently removed from the road and replaced with new diesel models.”

The study found that only a third of diesel owners would buy another diesel vehicle when they replace their current model, with many drivers saying they may well switch to petrol for their new car.

Wondering how much you could get for your diesel? Get your instant online valuation by clicking below the infographic.