- Fuel performance is important to consider when planning your trips
The first tip on how to save fuel is not about your vehicle, but rather the place you drive it.
Unsuccessful journey planning can cause a number of unwanted variables, including traffic congestion, poor roads, obstructions and more. These delays cause your engine to run longer and consume more fuel.
Modern sat-navs will often provide live traffic updates and alert or redirect you on less congested roads. You can also use a map to plan your trip. A quick search online will show you any roads that are congested or the times when they’re most likely to be.
- Increase your vehicle’s efficiency by using the stop/start function
UK rush-hour drivers spend over 28 hours in stationary traffic every year. If you live in London, this figure jumps to over 74. You wouldn’t leave your car idling on your driveway that long, so why would you do it in traffic?
Modern vehicles have intelligent stop/start systems that cut the engine when the vehicle is stopped. When the clutch or brake are released, the engine restarts. When hiring, ask about this feature. For Van Hire Bristol, visit https://www.autolynecarvanrental.co.uk/van-hire-bristol
Contrary to popular belief, the start/stop feature does actually save fuel. It only works when the car has warmed up, and therefore, it requires minimal effort to restart the motor. Automatic start/stop systems not only reduce fuel consumption but also emissions in busy areas. This is good for both the environment and your wallet.
You should strive for two things if you want to increase your MPG. A smooth drive and a high average speed.
Smooth driving involves a steady deceleration and acceleration, which reduces the need to stop, start, or change speed rapidly. Your engine will have to work harder to start your car from a stop than if you were to increase the speed of a car that is moving slowly. If you make speed changes less abruptly, you will achieve a higher average speed and improve fuel economy.
- Read the Road
It’s important to think ahead when driving.
You can anticipate many road features before you arrive, even though you don’t always know what is around the corner. This list includes traffic lights, roundabouts and junctions. You can anticipate these changes rather than reacting suddenly.
By planning ahead, you can increase your car’s fuel efficiency by a great deal.
- Do not rev the engine
Unnecessary engine revving is the best example of when your car will consume more fuel.
It may disappoint petrolheads, who love the sound of their engines, but it is true that revving your engine at high speeds only burns more fuel. No matter how good it sounds, you can save money by reducing the number of revs.