Environment

Fuel Efficiency Ratings

Each New Car displayed in Sandicliffe showrooms has a colour-coded fuel efficiency rating alongside - just like the one below and similar to the ones seen on new fridges and washing machines.

The coding is from band A to G. Bands A and B represent cars that emit the least CO2, as well as having lower car tax. The lower the emission band, the lower the tax you'll pay.

The label is also a guide to the running costs you can expect for that car over a 12,000-mile period. This enables you to compare how much different cars cost to run.

Car Emissions and Running Cost Calculator

In addition to showing the Miles Per Gallon (MPG), the Carbon Dioxide per Kilometer (CO2/KM), and Road Fund Licence costs, the calculator will show you the tax due for company car drivers.

Click here to use the calculator (Link opens in new window)

What is Carbon Offsetting?

By investing in clean technology or renewable energy to reduce CO2 emissions elsewhere, we can balance emissions created by driving. Money raised from carbon offsetting is used to fund projects that help bring down the overall amount of carbon emitted into the atmosphere. These projects include renewable energy, energy efficiency and rainforest restoration, all of which not only fight climate change, but bring benefits to communities round the world. A number of these initiatives also have health and social benefits. So by making offset contributions, you can have a positive effect on communities as well as neutralising emissions from driving.

How do I Offset

This link takes you to ClimateCare's website where you will find an on-line calculator which gives you a CO2 offset figure based on the number of miles you travel, the vehicles fuel economy and the type of fuel used. Once you have offset your emissions, you will be sent a certificate by email.

Click here to offset your vehicle's emissions (Link opens in new window).

Actions you can take today to reduce the amount of fuel you use:

Did you know that your personal style of driving could have a significant impact on the environment? The importance of "eco" or green driving to the environment is often underestimated but you can make a difference. By driving in a more careful and environmentally responsible way, you can be a safer driver while you cut exhaust emissions, save fuel, and at the same time - save yourself money at the fuel pump.

Studies have shown that by following the tips listed below, average drivers can reduce the amount of fuel they use by as much as 25%. Give them a try - you might be pleasantly surprised!

Anticipate traffic conditions, and accelerate and decelerate smoothly - it's safer, uses less fuel, reduces brake wear, and, on average, gets you to your destination just as quickly.

Avoid excess idling in non-traffic situations. For example, consider parking your car and using public transport for the rest of your journey.

Today's engines don't need to be warmed up in the winter. Prolonged idling creates excess emissions and wastes fuel.

Observe the speed limits - it's safer and saves fuel. It is estimated that there is 15% improvement by driving 56 instead of 65 mph.

Properly maintain your vehicle and replace your air filter as recommended - always consult your owner's manual or a member of the Sandicliffe Service Team.

Maintain a steady speed. Using cruise control where fitted, on the highway is ideal (except in hilly terrain), because it decreases accelerator pedal activity.

Use your heater and air conditioning selectively to reduce the load on your engine.

Avoid 'topping-off' the fuel tank when refueling. Overfilling your tank could result in spilled fuel that contributes to air pollution when it evaporates.

Remove excess weight. Unnecessary weight (unneeded items in the boot for example) makes the engine work harder and consume more fuel.

Plan and consolidate your trips. This will enable you to bypass congested routes, lead to less idling, fewer start-ups and less stop and go traffic. Whenever feasible, share a ride and/or carpool.

More eco-friendly tips from Sandicliffe

Inflate your Tyres

By ensuring your tyres are filled to the maximum recommended air pressure, you will save fuel, money and energy. Underinflated tyres can increase your fuel consumption by up to 8%.

Have your car serviced regularly

The better shape your car is, the more fuel efficient it will be and the less fuel it will burn.

Fuel Flush

For a very small fee (usually around 20% of the price of a full tank of fuel), using special additives, Sandicliffe can flush out your vehicle's fuel system - improving fuel consumption and overall engine performance. Please ask for details.

Turn off your engine

If you anticipate being stuck in traffic for more than a couple of minutes, turn off your engine to save fuel.

Use your car efficiently

Try to drive as smoothly as possible and don't drive in too high or too low a gear.

City centre driving

Wherever possible walk, cycle or use public transport in busy city centre areas. You can also organize car pools with people at your place of work.

Use a park and ride scheme

Buses under these schemes usually have priority bus lanes,so you can get to work without sitting in traffic.

The National Forest is a forest in the making, transforming 200 square miles of central England. It is a bold project, blending new and maturing woodland within a wide variety of landscapes, presenting opportunities for many to take part in its development. It is taking root in the heart of England across parts of Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Staffordshire and is transforming the landscape with the aim of linking the two ancient Forests of Charnwood on its Eastern fringe with Needwood Forest to its West.

Sandicliffe is proud to be involved with the National Forest Company and the creation of the Forest. With it being so local to our dealerships, it has the added advantage that our customers will be able enjoy the facilities it offers for years to come.

Click here to learn more about the National Forest (Link opens in new window).

We are constantly striving to recycle more of our waste in our aim to reduce the amount sent for landfill. There are some examples below of various things we recycle - from paper to engine oil.

1. Part Exchange vehicles/ Bodyshop write offs

These vehicles undergo a detailed devolution by an Authorised Treatment Facility before the car can be scrapped. Substances covered in this devolution include: tyres, fuels, oils, batteries, anti-freeze, pyrotechnics, etc.

2. Old Engine Oil

This is taken away by a subcontractor to be cleansed and is ultimately recycled and used for heating at a steel factory.

3. Damaged Bumpers

These are sent back to manufacturers for recycling.

4. Tyres

Old tyres are taken to a shredding plant in Stoke to be used either as alternative fuel or for playground and sports surfaces, and recycle the steel, instead of going for landfill.

5. Batteries

Old vehicle batteries are sent to a company in Matlock who recycle the acid to produce lead. The plastic is transformed into polypropylene pellets for use in various industries.

6. Paper and Cardboard

Most spare parts are delivered in cardboard packaging, which is baled in Leicestershire and sent for pulping.