Could fuelling foul-ups...

Could fuelling foul-ups be a thing of the past? A new device that prevents dozy drivers putting unleaded into diesel cars has been unveiled – and it couldn’t be simpler!

Every year, more than 150,000 motorists pump unleaded into their oil-burners – a figure that increases annually. The Misfuelling Prevention Device (MPD) was designed by two UK engineers. While other systems emit an audible warning, it replaces the filler cap and doesn’t feature any moving parts. The maker also claims owners can fit it in seconds.

The MPD has a specially shaped plastic filter that won’t allow a standard unleaded fuel nozzle to enter the filler neck. It has been designed to ensure that only the wider, diesel nozzles can get past.

Interest in the device has been overwhelming, according to manufacturer DDN Ltd, based in Ridlington, Norfolk. After successful trials with the emergency services, the MPD will soon appear in accessory outlets across the country.

DDN says it has also been inundated with orders from dealers who have become fed-up with having to pump out customers’ cars. One firm – Lookers Land Rover – has been offering the MPD to buyers placing an order for a new model, and it reports that uptake has been high.