Motorists hoarding junk in their cars

Britons are ignoring fuel economy warnings and loading up their cars with junk. That’s the findings of a new study by Michelin, which is suggesting that 5% of UK motorists are filling their cars with clutter that no longer fits in their homes.

The problem is now so widespread, apparently, that additional weight being carried in car boots is actually offsetting any benefits provided by modern, economical engines. The RAC have added that every 50kg carried can raise fuel usage by 2%.

Jamie McWhir, Michelin UK technical manager, said: “The research highlighted that we really are a nation of car hoarders. But carrying around all these unnecessary items is costing UK drivers cash because they will be using more fuel.

“It’s important to carry seasonally-essential and safety items such as de-icer and oil, but Michelin is calling on drivers to ditch the junk to power up their day to day fuel economy.”

The survey found that over one in four motorists are too lazy to clear out their car, while one in three only bother to do it around four times a year.

Cleaning accessories, shoes and books were among the unnecessary items drivers admitted to storing in their cars.

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