So says MG UK, which supplies a range of matchbox-sized vehicle monitoring systems, which can be quickly and easily fitted into vehicles and then send data back to each customer.

The equipment has been developed by Silverstone-based Road Angel and could deliver savings of £50 a month on the fuel bill of the average Transit style van at a cost of just 65p a day.

MG UK says that companies using the system have reported substantial fuel savings often running into thousands of pounds a year.

'This is a real solution to cutting fuel costs and making businesses more efficient and better placed to remain viable,' said Don Riley, MG UK director.

'Fuel costs are crippling many companies and there is an increasing number who are sadly going under, simply through the high cost of fuel but we are convinced our solution can protect companies with substantial savings.

'For example, exceeding the speed limit by just 10mph uses up to 15% more fuel, leaving engines idling can use a gallon of fuel an hour, unauthorised journeys also increase fuel bills but all these can be prevented with our system.'

MG adds that customers include a motor factor company in Milton Keynes, which has saved £28,000 a year; a coach operator in Huddersfield, which has reported savings of £20,000 a year, and a maintenance contractor, which is saving £1,600 per van per year.

Mr Riley added: 'It's a fast, inexpensive solution that is proven to bring results and it could make all the difference to companies struggling to keep going under the onslaught of rising fuel costs.'