There are special ways to save fuel while you drive

As petrol shortages hit the UK, we offer some top tips on how to save fuel whilst driving and avoid the dreaded car break down

Britain’s motorists have been panic buying petrol, causing long queues and fuel shortages at gas stations.

Despite the UK government reassuring the population that the country has ample stocks of fuel, motorists have been struggling to get their hands on the much-needed fuel.

Whether Covid-19, lack of lorry drivers, or Brexit is to blame, the result is the same: worldwide fuel prices are currently at their highest levels, and people are seeking ways to get a hold of petrol – fuel they so desperately need to get to work and lead a normal life.

Here is how you can save fuel while driving if you’re struggling to buy petrol:

Combine journeys

Making a one round trip rather than several short trips can significantly reduce a vehicle’s consumption of petrol as a warm engine is more efficient than a cold one.

This is because once the engine is warm, it operates at its most efficient level, instead of making multiple cold starts, which will see the vehicle increase its fuel consumption.

Carpooling is another effective way of combining journeys and travelling in a more sustainable way.

Maintain your vehicle

Keeping up with an engine’s maintenance and servicing helps to keep it efficient and can improve fuel consumption dramatically.

One under-inflated tire can cut fuel economy by 2%.

Loading a car above the tyres’ pressure recommended capability will also increase fuel consumption — so keep things light!

No excessive speeding

Fast speeding causes extreme fuel consumption.

Therefore, driving with a lighter right foot can tremendously reduce petrol usage.

Observing the speed limit not only saves fuel but can also help save a life.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates a 10% to 15% improvement in fuel economy by driving 55 mph instead of 65 mph.

Keep it light

The heavier a vehicle is, the more fuel it will use. This is why lightening the load of a vehicle is an effective way to keep fuel at a decreased level of usage.

Every 200 pounds of additional weight trims one mile of fuel efficiency.

Also, make sure to remove roof bars and roof boxes from your vehicle, as this can create wind resistance.

Use cruise control

Keeping a constant and similar speed where possible helps avoid unnecessary fuel excess on a vehicle.

Also, make sure you slow down in time for a stop, instead of suddenly pushing the breaks.

Less AC and heating

Unnecessary use of air conditioning and heating will increase fuel consumption.

If the weather allows it, keep the window open or simply add on more clothes while driving if it is cold outside.

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