Drivers in the UK are increasingly choosing fuel-efficient cars with historically low carbon dioxide emissions.

According to the motor industry body SMMT, the demand for low-emission cars has risen as a result of rising fuel prices.

There are plenty of types of hybrid and electric cars on the market now and thanks to new technology the supply of these cars is continually increasing.

The SMMT said 46.8% of cars sold in 2011 emitted less than 130 grams per kilometre, up from 10.6% in 2007.

According to our users’ search habits the most searched for eco friendly cars are:

1) Toyota Prius
2) Kia Ceed
3) Smart Fortwo

The change in consumer behaviour has been closely linked with the rise in fuel prices, as well as the rises to tax and insurance costs. This are higher for powerful cars, cars that drink a lot more fuel and cars that generally emit more CO2 than smaller models.

The increase in purchases of fuel-efficient cars is good news, however, to achieve further improvements, the SMMT is lobbying for the government to adjust taxes to encourage investment in new technologies and to offer consumers incentives to encourage them to buy more fuel-efficient, less polluting cars.

Why not take a look at the fuel-efficient cars on Friday Ad Motors now?

Picture: Toyota Motors Europe