What does the cryptic crossword clue "Pre-programme car, 50% less consumed (8)" mean?

The definition is "Pre-programme". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). AUTOM (synonym="AUTOM") + ATE (synonym="‘consumed’") = AUTOMATE; definition: "Pre-programme" The answer is AUTOMATE.

Pre-programme car, 50% less consumed (8)

Guardian Cryptic #28906 | 1 Down | 2022-11-04 flower

← Back to puzzle

Visit Guardian's puzzle site →