FLEET drivers choosing small cars could help alleviate the UK’s growing problem of congestion.

A new study looking at the effect of driving small cars has shown that vehicles such as the smart fortwo could cut congestion by a third.

Research from consultancy group Capita Symonds showed that three smart fortwo vehicles could pass through a set of traffic lights in the same time as two average-size cars.

The study tested congestion at road junctions, with results recorded on video. Peter Mynors, consultant in the transport planning department at Capita Symonds, said: ‘The average car occupancy for journeys to work in the UK is 1.2 people and most commuters carry only minimal luggage.

‘In cars with four seats, this means that half the vehicle on commuter journeys is dead space.’