Its Transport and Climate Change report calls for EU emission targets to be made mandatory, something opposed by car makers, refinements to emission-driven taxation for both private and company cars, and properly enforcing the 70 mph motorway speed limit.

It calls on motorists to accelerate gently, limit air conditioning use, have correctly inflated tyres to cut rolling resistance, avoid engine idling and drive without roof racks and with windows closed to reduce fuel-wasting aerodynamic drag. “The report suggests the kind of practical driving and car maintenance tips that all driers should adhere to anyway,” said RMIF chairman Alec Murray.