Fuel Saving Tips - Driving
You may have noticed that the cost of filling your car with petrol has increased significantly over the last few months. In fact, the current prices are at a record high, at around $4.25 per gallon.
Why are petrol prices rising?
The war between Russia and Ukraine is one of the main reasons. However, the price of gas was already rising in the weeks before the Russian invasion of Ukraine, because of the increased demand due to the lifting of the restrictions around COVID-19. But as the restrictions were lifted, the war broke out, and the price of gas jumped by around 40¢ during the first week of the invasion. While the price of regular gas at the pump currently sits at around $4.15 per gallon, it’s important to note that the prices can vary by state. In California for example, we are seeing prices for regular gas as high as $5.90 per gallon. This surge in gas prices could add over $1,500 in annual cost to the average American household.
When will petrol prices go down?
The Energy Information Administration projects that the average price of Brent crude oil will be $105.22 per barrel this year, a $22 difference compared to the original forecast made in February. Many analysts are predicting that gas prices could stay around $4 per gallon for the rest of 2022.
So with no real end in sight, we have put together some tips to help improve your fuel efficiency whilst driving.
How to reduce your fuel consumption when driving?
Bad driving isn’t just dangerous. It’s expensive too. Studies have repeatedly shown that driving habits are the single biggest factor that affects fuel consumption. If you can try a new driving style, it not only makes car travel safer but can also contribute to massive savings at the gas pump. Here are some simple ways you can improve your car’s gas consumption:
Accelerate Gently
The harder you accelerate, the more gas you use. Use your right foot lightly to move off and get up to speed, and you’ll see the cost savings instantly.
Easy on the Brakes
Sharp braking wastes energy and can lead to increased fuel consumption. Try to ease off the accelerator and leave plenty of distance to the car in front as you may be able to keep moving if the car in front stops. This will mean that you don’t have to accelerate as hard to get back up to speed.
Reduce Your Speed
Slow down and maintain a steady speed. On the highway, drag causes fuel economy to drop off significantly as speeds increase above 50 mph. In fact, a vehicle traveling at 70mph uses about 20% more fuel than the same vehicle at 60mph. That’s a substantial increase – imagine the savings over a long journey.
No Idling
As the signs say! Avoid idling to warm up the engine, even in winter. It wastes fuel.
Read the Road Ahead
By training yourself to look further down the road you can avoid sharp braking and acceleration. Try changing lanes in advance of a slow-moving vehicle, or gradually slowing down before a junction. This is especially helpful when driving in town. Giving you time to adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights.
Lighten the Load
Make sure your trunk is empty for daily driving. The heavier your car, the more gas you will burn through. This can also reduce the wear and tear on your brakes and tires.
Avoid Air Conditioning (where possible)
Minimize your use of air conditioning. At highway speeds, an open window has less effect on fuel economy than air conditioning. You may be surprised to learn that using your vehicle’s air conditioning system can increase fuel consumption by as much as 20%.
Reduce Drag
Remove roof racks, roof boxes, and cycle racks when they aren’t being used. These increase drag and use more fuel to compensate.
Tires
Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflation reduces fuel economy, increases tire wear, and can overheat and blow out.
Avoid the Sun
In really hot weather, try to park your vehicle in the shade or out of direct sunlight midday. You could use a windshield sunscreen to reduce the heat buildup inside the car. This will reduce the need for air conditioning when you get in, and save you money.