In addition to new and future technologies like hybrid electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, Opel continues to make improvements to the traditional gasoline engine. Some of the key power-train technologies that Opel is implementing include:

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) - This technology shuts off half of the vehicle's cylinders when less power is needed, such as during steady cruising speed or deceleration.

• Engine Variable Valve Timing, which helps optimise engine air flow for maximum efficiency and power.

• Six-Speed Transmissions - Fuel economy is enhanced with a six-speed transmission because smaller "steps" are used between gears, compared to a conventional four-speed automatic. This allows the transmission to quickly find the best gear for the vehicle speed and road conditions. Over one million vehicles annually will be equipped with this technology by end 2008.

In addition to engine technologies, Opel is focused on aerodynamics. Every vehicle Opel produces undergoes rigorous mathematical analysis and physical testing in the world's largest automotive aerodynamics wind tunnel and lab to optimise aerodynamic shape development, maximise cooling airflow and minimise wind noise. All of this work helps improve the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. In fact, next to engine improvements, aerodynamics is the second largest contributor to fuel economy gains.

Other key technologies that help improve fuel economy include:

• Regulated voltage control (RVC) - Opel's patented RVC technology optimises alternator load by reducing voltage when the battery reaches 80 per cent state-of-charge. RVC extends battery and electrical component life.

• Electric cooling fans - These fans replace engine-driven fans. They require less horsepower and produce less noise.

• A variable displacement air conditioner compressor replaces a fixed displacement compressor, providing an increase in fuel economy with A/C on.

• Electric power steering reduces mechanical losses by eliminating the pump, hoses, and hydraulic fluids.

Opel boasts it has made fuel economy a priority, placing significant resources and effort into producing cars and trucks that offer leading fuel economy and performance. The results are achieved by improving engine and transmission efficiencies, producing vehicles with better aerodynamics and minimising vehicle energy losses.

Another key technology to improve fuel economy is the increased application of turbo charging.

Two examples are the sporty, top-of-the-range OPC version of the Meriva, powered by a newly-developed 180-hp 1.6-litre Ecotec turbo engine and the 2.8l V6 Ecotec turbo in the Vectra and Signum.

Customers can view the Opel range or book a test drive at the United Automobile showroom in Ta' Xbiex.

Useful tips to motorists

• Avoid unnecessary short trips.

• Drive as you start the engine. Don't let the engine idle until warm but drive at moderate engine speed until it warms up. Turning off the engine pays off for waits of as little as one minute.

• Maintain constant speed, avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking.

• Shift into higher gears early. In each gear, stay in the lower engine speed range. While in coasting mode, don't step on the gas and don't disengage the clutch.

• Give your vehicle regular maintenance and tune ups and check tyre pressure regularly.

• Remove roof luggage racks when not in use and switch off devices that consume additional energy, such as air-conditioning, heated windows, or fog lights, when not needed.