Businesses in Birmingham are being warned about overlooking fuel efficiency as a cost-saving measure.

Volkswagen Van Centre Birmingham, has just launched the new Volkswagen Crafter, which is more fuel efficient with lower-emissions than the previous model, and is highlighting how fuel economy can improve profit margins for businesses.

In the last 12 months, the average price of unleaded petrol in the West Midlands region has risen by 17 per cent, while diesel has risen by 18 per cent.*

This increase in fuel prices has led to services like Business Link, the government's online business resource, issuing advice on vehicle investment.

Business Link states: "Businesses must manage fuel effectively to maintain their profit margins and remain competitive.

"Fuel savings also go hand-in-hand with lower CO2 emissions, so managing fuel effectively also reduces impact on the environment."

Other methods of improving and monitoring vehicle efficiency, including driving style, tyre pressure and fleet management systems, which can produce further fuel savings of between five to 10 per cent.**

Mark Woodhouse, head of business at Volkswagen Van Centre Birmingham, said: "Many businesses in the region will need to consider the costs of fuel and tax in the coming years.

"The new Crafter is designed with efficiency and low emissions in mind.  It uses Volkswagen's latest 2.0-litre TDI engine, which can achieve 29 per cent better fuel economy, yet delivers more power or torque than its predecessor."

The new Crafter was officially launched on 1 August with retail prices starting from £20,450 (plus VAT) and is currently available to business users by Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Finance from a suitably frugal £305 a month (plus VAT).

For further information about the new Volkswagen Crafter, please contact Volkswagen Van Centre Birmingham on 0121 260 3000.

* Statistics taken from www.theaa.com.

** Statistics taken from Business Car Magazine Issue 123.