UK motorists are looking to cut down on fuel costs by changing their driving habits, but only 8% are willing to trade in their car for one that is more economical.

According to a survey of 2,014 motorists by Green Flag, more than a third (39%) of all motorists said they will avoid behaviours like heavy acceleration and sudden breaking to help minimise their fuel consumption.

The research also reveals 41% of motorists are cutting back on the number of journeys they make and 11% making say they are making better use of public transport.

A spokesperson for Green Flag, said: "There's no doubt the current price, and predicted increase of the cost of fuel in the UK is forcing many people to rethink their driving behaviours.”

Green Flag said the survey is representative of UK adults aged 18 and over. ONS population figures show 49,969,000 adults in the UK in 2012 therefore all figures are based on percentages of this figure.

BCA's Used Car Market Report 2012 which includes consumer survey information of 4,000 motorists provides another view of motorists' intentions to switch to improve fuel consumption.

The report suggests that continuing pressures and the double-dip recession are going to significantly change the type of vehicle motorists want to buy. Respondents to BCA's report show that 27% are looking to swap due to better fuel consumption and 20% because of lower road tax.

The BCA report also shows that 14% are looking to downsize to a smaller car, but only 2% want to change up to a bigger car. This still leaves a proportion of 84% that are not looking to downsize at all.