This article examines the various methods by which a car driver can reduce fuel consumption by providing a comprehensive list of fuel efficiency tips. It is by no means exhaustive and readers are encouraged to add there own tips by commenting on this article at www.classcampers.com. Help save your money whist doing your bit for the environment.
Effective Gear Changing
Try to drive in the highest gear possible without labouring the engine. A vehicle travelling at 32mph in third gear uses 22 percent more fuel than at the same speed in fifth gear. But remember do not labour the engine – use your gears efficiently.
Keep to a speed
When driving on the motorway, remember to keep to a specific speed. The slower the better. For instance driving at 50 Mph will increase fuel efficiency by 50% over driving at 75Mph. Use the cruise control if your car has it.
Lightly on the Throttle
Only ever pres the accelerator pedal very lightly. Never stamp your foot down hard on the accelerator. When you encounter a hill try to keep the accelerator pedal at the same level that it was before you reached the hill. When the engine starts to labour, change down a gear.
Do not brake too much
Whist this sounds strange, the more you have to brake is directly proportional to the amount you have used the accelerator. Try to anticipate junctions and let the car slow at its own pace. You can save up to 30% of your fuel driving this way.
Switch off your engine
But only do this if you can see that you will be waiting for more than a couple of minutes. It takes 1 minute worth of normal driving fuel to start your car and if the engine is cool then the catalytic converter will not be working at its full efficiency. So only turn your engine of if you have just been stopped by a red traffic signal or you are in a long tail back.
Add Lightness
Think about what you need on a journey. If you do not need something, do not pack it. The lighter the load, the lower the fuel consumption and emissions, and the higher the fuel efficiency.
Tyres
Make sure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure. Under inflated tyres will reduce your vehicles fuel efficiency. It will also cause premature tyre wear. Check your tyre pressures once every two weeks. . When you next replace your tyres make sure you buy ECO tyres that have been designed for fuel efficiency.
Roof Rack
Unless you absolutely need one, do not ever drive with a roof rack on your car. These can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 15%
Windows & Air Conditioning
Although most people know that air conditioning can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 20%, little people know that having two or more windows open can decrease fuel efficiency by up 32%. So what do you do?. The most fuel efficient method is to have the windows shut and the air conditioning off. But lets be honest, most of us are not going to do that. So it is actually more fuel efficient to have your windows shut and use the air conditioning wisely. Do not have your car like a fridge; just have the air con on just to make the temperature bearable.
Buy a New Car
New cars come in all shapes and sizes, but it is possible to pick a new car that can greatly reduce your fuel bill, your fuel emissions and your conscience. Choose an economical car, this means primarily a small car. Small cars are usually much more economical than larger cars. Also, if you choose the best tax class of car, such as a Ford Fiesta 1.4 diesel you will only pay £40 a year for road tax.
Consider diesel engines and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) cars - all have lower CO2 emissions than standard petrol cars. However, diesel cars tend to create more particulate emissions so make sure the model you are choosing has a particle filter.
Clean Air Filter
One of the most common reasons for a drop in fuel efficiency is a dirty intake filter. Make sure you clean or change this regularly. A decrease in air in to the engine will cause a large drop in fuel efficiency.
Clean Spark Plugs
Make sure your spark plugs are in good condition. Renew the plugs and HT leads at intervals specified by the owner’s manual or at every service interval.