How to Improve Fuel Economy And Save Money

Article Category: Finance

With the demand for oil growing worldwide, the price of petrol at the pumps looks certain to continue to rise over the coming years.

The development of electric, hydrogen power and other alternative fueled cars still has a way to go. So, with the price of petrol getting higher and higher, here are some tips for how you can help your own pocket, and the environment, by consuming less fuel when you drive.

Steer clear of short trips when possible: cold engines can use 60% more fuel than a warm engine (Energy Saving Trust).
Check what you're carrying on your journey. Remove anything you don't need to take with you, such as roof racks, bicycle racks and items in your trunk (boot). By saving on weight, you will save on fuel consumption.
Where possible, drive in the highest gear that you can without letting the engine labour. Driving a motor vehicle at 37 miles per hour (mph) in third gear can use 25 per cent more fuel than driving at the same speed in fifth gear (RAC).
Consider your speed. When travelling at 70 mph you use 30 per cent more fuel than at 50 mph, in the same gear. The most economical speed is said to be 40-45 mph.
Avoid heavy braking and apply the throttle pedal lightly. By braking heavily and accelerating quickly you waste fuel. Improving your driving in this area can save you up to 30% on fuel costs (RAC).
If you are stuck in a traffic jam for more than a few minutes, and it is safe to do so, switch off your engine.
If you don't really need to use your air conditioning, switch it off and open your air vents or windows. Switching off air conditioning can help decrease your fuel consumption considerably.
Get your motor vehicle serviced regularly and ensure that you check tyre pressures at regular intervals and before long journeys. Incorrect tyre pressures can have an impact on fuel consumption, adding up to 2% to your fuel bill.
Ask your garage to check your vehicle emissions and catalytic converter. According to the RAC, 90% of badly polluting vehicles can be retuned by a garage within 15 minutes.
Upgrade your car to a new one. The older a car gets, the more inefficient it can become. If you currently have an old banger, you could achieve a considerable saving on fuel economy by updating to a newer 'fuel efficient' vehicle. Consider the option of buying a 'hybrid' vehicle, for extra fuel economy. If you buy a new car, check out the car's fuel consumption before you buy.

These fuel consumption tips are here only a guide and you should consider your own circumstances before deciding to try any of these ideas.

Fuel Consumption Websites

VCA Car Fuel Data
For UK residents. The website of the Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA), on New Car Fuel Consumption and Exhaust Emissions Figures. You can search for fuel economy and car tax information on your vehicle here.