About 180 private cars have joined the Hong Kong Fuel Economy Run for Private Cars today, striving to complete the assigned routes using the least amount of fuel.

The first-ever event organised by the Electrical & Mechanical Services Department aims to enhance people's awareness, particularly drivers', of fuel savings and eco-driving.

"Through strong public and private collaboration on energy and fuel savings, we hope to appeal to the public to maintain the momentum," Director of Electrical & Mechanical Services Ho Kwong-wai said at the prize-presentation ceremony.

Participating private cars were divided into four main categories - engine cylinder capacity, family, hybrid vehicle and invitational - to run in two routes: Sai Kung & Hong Kong Island, and New Territories via Tai Po and NT West.

Special awards were given to the former two categories to promote the fuel-consumption index. The awards, determined by the least fuel used per 100km per passenger, aim to encourage the shared use of private cars.

Two briefing sessions and workshops were held on October 13 and 15. Transport expert speakers had shared their views on how to save fuel as a car owner and in fleet management, best practices in car maintenance to avoid extra fuel consumption, and eco-driving skills.

The department's Hong Kong Energy End-use Data 2008 showed the transport sector accounts for 35% of end-use energy consumption in the city, which was second to the 38% for the commercial sector.