Viabtor Voltage Stabiliser
We test plug-in gizmo which claims to slash fuel bills.
Price: £44.90
Plug into your car’s 12-volt socket, and you can cut your fuel costs by 10 per cent... That’s the amazing claim made by the new Viabtor voltage stabiliser – and we found out if it delivers.
The maker says it guarantees a steady flow of power to the ECU, to ensure that the most efficient engine combustion is calculated.
We brimmed our test car with diesel, and set off on a short trip, of just under six miles on urban and rural roads without using the Viabtor, to set a benchmark. We returned to the same pump, brimmed the tank again and noted how much fuel we’d used.
Then we plugged in the gadget to see what it could do. When our Vauxhall Corsa was fitted with the Viabtor, we used slightly less fuel – our average return was 2.8mpg better. The difference may have been more marked had we been stuck for longer in stop-start traffic, but the roads were clear.
Our biggest criticism regarding the product is the initial outlay. As it’s priced at £45, it will take quite a few journeys before the Viabtor even pays for itself.
Verdict
Rating: ★★★
What is it?
A gadget that adjusts the flow of current around your car's wiring in order to improve your fuel consumption.
Problems?
Expensive, doesn’t improve fuel consumption on the motorway.
Why buy?
Good for old cars, clearly had an impact when driving around town..