Fuel prices across the country have hit record highs this week, as the cost of living continues to rise at a staggering rate. The Independent has reported that some forecourts in London and the surrounding areas have reached £2 a litre.
With the average price for a tank of petrol now at £88, and diesel coming in at £92, there are no signs that the increases will ease anytime soon. We’ve compiled a list of top tips for things you can do to reduce your fuel costs and increase your miles between visiting the pumps.
Keep Tyres Inflated
Low tyre pressure increases vehicle drag which in turn means you need more fuel to keep you at the same speed. Monitoring your tyres regularly and making sure they are inflated to the correct PSI will help.
Avoid the A/C
Unlike car heaters, air conditioning units consume a lot of fuel. At lower speeds opening your windows will not cause enough air resistance to impact fuel efficiency but you won’t need your air conditioning on so will save fuel.
Lose the Extra Weight
The heavier the car the more fuel it will take to get moving. Studies suggest fuel efficiency can be increased by up to 2% with a reduction in weight of just 45kg. So, take off that roof box or bike rack, when it’s not being used and check your boot for unnecessary items that might be weighing you down.
On the subject of roof boxes and bike racks, these also increase drag which is a 2nd reason to remove them when not in use.
Hard acceleration uses more fuel so be gentle on the pedal if you want to conserve your petrol or diesel.
Accelerate Gently
Avoid High Speeds
As with accelerating hard, driving at constant high speed uses more fuel than going slower. The average car is most efficient at a steady 55 to 65 mph.
Go Steady on the Brakes
Decelerating the car by taking your foot of the accelerator and coasting through your gears, rather than using your brakes, will save fuel. Pay attention to what the traffic ahead is doing to know in advance when you will need to slow down.
Change Gear Before the Revs Get High
Shift through lower gears quickly and fluidly to avoid over revving the engine as the higher the RPM the higher the use of fuel. Once you’ve got into the higher gears then it’s time to increase your speed.
Don’t Coast in Neutral
Finally, you may think that sticking your car in neutral and coasting down the hills will save your fuel, but this is a myth, not to mention dangerous so we don’t recommend it.
Think Electric for Your Next Car
Many British car manufacturers have announced going ‘all electric’ in the future and we can see many more following suit. Is it worth looking at this option for your next car purchase and getting ahead of the trend before it’s forced upon you?
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