Petrol and diesel drivers can save 14% on fuel by pressing one button today

Petrol and diesel drivers could make major fuel savings by pressing a button found on the dashboard of most modern vehicles. Car manufacturer Kia said pressing the cruise control switch on the vehicle's dashboard would make them "more fuel-efficient".

This is because cruising around at the same speed will use up less fuel than constantly adjusting between acceleration and braking. By maintaining a constant and steady speed, the vehicle can operate at a more efficient RPM. Top car brand Kia said drivers may be able to save up to 14% by pressing the switch in a major boost to owners.

Kia said: "Generally speaking, yes. Cruise control can help you become more fuel-efficient and can help you save an average of 7-14% on gas thanks to its ability to maintain a continuous speed.

"In comparison, the constant change in acceleration and deceleration of the driver placing their foot over the pedals can eat more gas."

The cruise control button is usually located behind the steering wheel or on a stalk behind the steering column.

Motorists should notice a light appear on their car dashboard when the cruise control mode is activated. The tool is designed to automatically deactivate when motorists press their foot down on the throttle or brake.

The RAC added: "Cruise control only aids fuel economy when driving on a constant flat surface, hence why it is usually best reserved for motorway driving.

"One of the keys to saving fuel is driving at a constant speed, cruise control can do this effectively on flat surfaces, making your driving as fuel efficient as possible by negating unnecessary acceleration."

However, experts at Kia warned drivers should not turn on their cruise control switch every single time they get behind the wheel.

Kia added: "Keep in mind, cruise control is only fuel-efficient when used on flat road conditions that are free from traffic congestion or on even uphill or downhill drives.

"However, if you are driving on hill conditions that change perpetually or sharp inclines, it is recommended to deactivate the cruise control function."

According to the latest data from RAC Fuel Watch, unleaded petrol currently sits at 132.75p per litre, among the lowest rates since 2021.

Diesel is also down with fees at 139.01p per litre, down from 146p per litre back in March.