News from around the world continues to highlight the impact global events can have on energy prices, particularly gas and oil.
Although much of what's happening is out of our control, there are some practical steps we can take to help us use less fuel.
Whether you're driving petrol, diesel or electric, these tips will help you cut your fuel usage and save money.
Stay smooth
Driving a car properly and economically is all about smoothness. Sudden acceleration, braking and not anticipating what the traffic is doing costs petrol.
Slow down
The faster you drive the more fuel you use. Slow down and cut your fuel usage.
Get going
Modern cars don't need to be "warmed up" in the way older cars did. Start the car and move off without using-up unnecessary fuel.
Don’t stick in lower gears for longer than needed
Start the car and get into the highest gear you can as soon as possible. Some modern cars will indicate the need to shift up, so take that advice.
Plan your journey
Time spent getting lost and finding your way again will waste fuel.
Clear out the clutter
The more weight a car has, the more fuel it uses. Before you set off, clear the boot and interior of any unwanted clutter. Also, be sure to remove any unused roof racks, roof boxes or trailers. As well as adding weight, these also cause drag which makes your car work harder and use more fuel.
Check your tyre pressure
Check that your tyre pressures are as the manufacturer recommends in the car’s handbook. Under inflated tyres increase resistance which means you could use as much as 5 – 10% more fuel for your journey.
Only use what you need
While the electrical features in most cars only have a tiny impact on fuel use, there is one main exception: air-conditioning. It increases engine load which leads to greater fuel consumption, so before you stick on the AC, ask yourself if you really need it.
Close the windows
Open windows and sunroofs cause drag which makes the engine work harder and burns more fuel. If you’re debating between opening the windows on a sweltering hot day or using the air-con, then the clue is in the speed you’re doing. If you're doing below 40mph, opening the windows is likely to be more efficient. Above 40mph, and you should close your windows and use the AC.
Turn off the engine
Take advantage of stop-start technology or, if you’re stationary in traffic for more than a few seconds, turn off the engine. Many modern engines use less fuel to restart than they do left idling, even for just 10–20 seconds.
Service your car
Sounds obvious, but skimping on basic maintenance means that the car will be operating much less efficiently and that means poorer fuel consumption.
Calculate your consumption
You won’t know if your new driving style and practices are working unless you know how many litres you get per mile. Some cars may have on-board computers, which are not always accurate. First fill the tank, zero the trip meter and note the mileage. Go on a long journey, 50-100 miles. Fill the tank again and note the number of litres taken. Finally divide the number of miles driven by the amount of fuel used.
Car share
Try not to take more cars than are necessary. Share cars and take it in turns to pick each other up.
Consider economical cars
When the time comes for you to sell your car and look for another one, consider more economical models. It could save you money in the long run.
What about EVs?
If you drive an electric vehicle, smooth driving and reducing drag will also help your battery range, while pre‑conditioning your car while it’s plugged in can reduce energy use on the road. If your EV uses a heat pump, climate control is more efficient than older resistive systems.
Group your journeys
Rather than going out, coming home and going out again, group your journeys together to cut down the time you’re out on the roads. It takes more energy to get a car moving once it’s stopped and you may even find you save on your car insurance by cutting down on your average annual mileage.
Avoid rush hour
Rather than leaving home and sitting in traffic for hours, leave a little earlier or later if possible and try to miss the rush hour. As well as reducing your journey time and so reducing your fuel consumption, you’ll also arrive a little less stressed.
Take advantage of fuel apps
Download pump price apps to your mobile and be prepared to shop around to get the best price.
Walk
If you're not going far, why not leave the car at home? Not only will you be saving fuel, but walking is brilliant exercise too.
