Aussie invention can save drivers big bucks

A new device that plugs into your car's OBD port promises to teach you smoother driving habits to save fuel and expense.

And, priced at just $129, GOFAR can pay for itself within just a few months, says the inventor.

Developed by Australian aerospace engineer, Danny Adams, GOFAR is already available in 48 countries around the world and offers users the additional benefit of logging trips for the purpose of claiming travel expenses against tax. Additionally, the system can keep track of the car's servicing needs.

“I developed GOFAR over four years during the evenings and weekends to shine a light on how the world’s 1.2 billion cars can be more efficiently operated, saving their owners a lot of money while also reducing pollution," Adams says.

The GOFAR system comprises an adapter that plugs into the car's OBD (on-board diagnostics) port under the dash. Another device ('Ray') sits on the dash, connected by cable to the adapter. It illuminates LEDs to inform the driver whenever braking is too harsh or acceleration is too heavy.

Adams believes drivers can typically save 15 cents per litre of fuel used by following the prompts to drive gentler. Australian drivers already using the GOFAR system are claimed to be saving as much as $1000 a year in their SUVs, or $500 in their passenger cars.

There's also a downloadable app for smartphones to track vehicle usage for tax time.

“As the financial year ends, many Australians will be looking for car receipts and wasting hours trying to remember their car expenses," says Adams.

"GOFAR will be of great use to the six million Australians who make tax claims on their cars as it automatically logs all car trips for the easy preparation of tax returns.

“This device is not just for professional drivers – there’s eight million Australian car commuters, 1.5 million of whom drive over 90 minutes every day and spend an average of $9000 a year on their cars.

"If you’re driving a thirsty SUV, then for just $129, GOFAR can help you save almost $3000 over three years. It really pays to listen to your car and GOFAR makes it easy.”

The GOFAR system can be purchased through the website.