An Australian couple is driving day and night across the United States in an effort to set a Guinness World record for fuel efficiency.

ADVERTISEMENT

John and Helen Taylor are driving from San Francisco to New York in a standard car, in an effort to drive around the world across 18,000 miles and 25 countries -- using as little gasoline as possible.

So far, the Taylors have driven 12,700 miles -- averaging 51 miles per gallon by using Shell fuel and employing Shell FuelStretch principles, which include driving and vehicle maintenance tips.

The Taylors and crew spend up to 14 hours a day on the road, driving both day and night, while adhering to strict health and safety guidelines. They also follow a strict and limited eating regime to minimize the risk of illness.

The couple hope to use fewer than 35 fill-ups for the global journey -- scheduled to end in London in early April after crossing Portugal, Spain and France.