With the ever-increasing cost of fuel, it’s becoming more important than ever to look for ways to save money by driving in an environmentally friendly manner. Simply altering your driving style can save you a large amount of money in a short period of time.
This section on how to save petrol will provide information on eco-driving, which will not only save you money on petrol or diesel but will also make driving safer and reduce CO2 emissions. Here are five quick ways to save money on petrol or diesel fuel.
Driving at High Speed
When travelling at high speeds, air resistance is a crucial problem. The faster you move, the higher the resistance, which means you’ll need more energy. The amount of energy necessary to accelerate your car from 10 to 20 mph is little because all that is required is to move the car’s weight against slight air resistance.
Air resistance accounts for 40% of the energy needed by cars travelling at 70 mph on highways and dual carriageways. With even the tiniest increase in speed, this percentage rapidly rises. To illustrate how air resistance reduces fuel efficiency, driving at 70 mph uses 9% more gasoline than driving at 60 mph, and driving at 70 mph uses 15% more fuel than driving at 50 mph.
Gear Changing
Driving in higher gear results in higher rpm, which equals more gasoline consumption. If you’re driving a diesel, change gears around 2,000 rpm, and 2,500 rpm if you’re driving petrol. This type of fuel-efficient gear shifting can save up to 15% on fuel. In most current cars, driving around town in a 30 mph zone is possible in 4th gear.
Turning Car off
Switch off if it appears that you will be stuck in traffic for more than a minute or two. Starting a car, on the other hand, burns a specific quantity of fuel, roughly equivalent to idling for one minute. Turning the car off for a brief pause of less than one minute may use more gasoline than leaving it running. Modern cars with start/stop technology have a start-up system that utilises less fuel.
Check Tyre Pressure
Tyres that are under-inflated create more drag. Have you ever tried riding a bike with tyres that are under-inflated? How much more difficult is it to ride? A car is no exception. With under-inflated tyres, the engine will have to work significantly harder, using more fuel. Check your car’s manual or a tyre specialist garage for information on proper tyre pressure.
Planning Ahead
In large cities and towns, your engine is now primarily responsible for lifting the weight of the vehicle, rather than air resistance. Reading the road ahead of you can help you save a lot of money on fuel.
Traffic jams are common at traffic lights, crossroads, roundabouts, and other locations, as we all know. It is advantageous to look far ahead while driving and anticipate a stop. As you approach the traffic congestion, gradually ease off the pedal and gently use the brakes. Driving in this manner, with your foot off the accelerator and relying on the vehicle’s momentum, consumes no fuel.