Guard KOs Fuelish Blunders

Those really annoying musical greetings cards - the ones that play a tinny version of Happy Birthday when you open them - are the unlikely inspiration for a new motoring invention.

Auto Express Car Reviews

09th February 2004

Kirk Eden, of Merseyside-based UK Fuel Guard, has borrowed the sound-chip technology to create a warning device designed to prevent diesel drivers accidentally filling up with unleaded - a costly mistake 300,000 motorists make each year.

Called Diesel Guard, the gadget is the size of a matchbox and can be attached to the inside of an oil-burner's fuel-filler flap. When the flap is opened, a built-in photocell triggers the sound chip and a voice reminds the driver to use derv, and not petrol. The electronic unit has been specially developed for safe use in a flammable environment. Kirk told us: "A couple of years ago, my uncle put unleaded into his car after forgetting it was a diesel. He challenged me to make a cheap gadget which could stop other drivers from doing the same thing." Diesel Guard is expected to go on sale in March for around ΂£10. It's available from www.dieselguard.com as well as motoring stores. E-mail info@dieselguard.com for details.