A government drive aimed at reducing vehicle fuel consumption and pollution targets not only current motorists but also learner drivers who will face an examination on «eco-driving» as of next January.

By changing their driving habits, motorists can make fuel savings of between 10 and 20 percent and at the same time contribute toward curbing pollution and reducing road accidents by up to 25 percent, Transport and Communications Minister Costis Hatzidakis said.

Adopting a series of simple practises - such as reducing speed, regularly checking tyre pressure and switching the engine off during stops of longer than one minute - could also lead to significant financial savings, Hatzidakis said. According to ministry experts, a 5 percent reduction in fuel consumption by private vehicles alone would mean a saving of 245 million euros a year.

Prospective drivers sitting their test next year will face questions on eco-driving in their written exam.