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Driving Tips for Saving Fuel Around Town

By: Sally Aquire - Updated: 9 Oct 2012 | comments*Discuss
Motoring Driving Fuel Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficient driving is essential if you want to keep your fuel costs to a minimum. There are several driving tips that you can follow to conserve as much fuel as possible. As well as helping with fuel costs, fuel efficient driving will also help to reduce your car's carbon emissions, making it more environmentally friendly. This article offers advice on getting the best fuel efficiency out of your car.

Drive Carefully

Driving fast tends to burn more fuel and is a less fuel efficient way of motoring. You can save up to 25% more fuel by sticking to the speed limit, or staying below it. Driving in a way that it is not aggressive will also help matters. For example, you should be cautious when braking, as braking too sharply can contribute to your car's fuel emissions. Revving the engine is another no-no, as it increases fuel consumption too. Driving carefully also makes you more aware of potential hazards that would otherwise force you to brake sharply.

Use Gears Wisely

Travelling in a low gear when it is not necessary will not save on fuel. In fact, it can actually waste fuel. Because of this, it is far better to move up into the top gear as soon as you need to without being aggressive on the accelerator.

Limit the Air Conditioning

Switching on the air conditioning is only fuel efficient if you drive at high speed (which burns more fuel anyway). It is usually better to open the windows instead, as using the air conditioning can increase your car's fuel consumption by as much as 10%.

Switch Off the Engine when Stationary

If you are going to be stationary for more than a minute as it wastes a considerable amount of fuel. It is best to switch off the engine when the car is not moving to increase your fuel efficiency. Waiting in a traffic jam is an exception to this.

Check Tyre Pressures

Make sure that your car's tyre pressures are at the correct level for maximum fuel efficiency. It is best to do this at least once a month before you leave home. If you find that the tyres are not correctly inflated, you can add air to them at most petrol stations. If your car tyres are too soft, they can wear down more easily and burn fuel more quickly. Tyres that are not properly inflated can increase your car's fuel consumption by up to 6%, as they create more resistance, which means that the engine has to work harder to compensate.

Lighten the Load

Travelling light is essential for fuel efficient motoring. Carrying extra items in the boot that are not strictly necessary means that your car's engine has to work harder, which in turn increases your fuel emissions. If in doubt, it is best to leave them out so that you can drive more efficiently.

Fuel efficient motoring is often a matter of slightly altering your driving style to conserve as much fuel as possible. It shouldn't inconvenience you too much, and your wallet and the environment will thank you for it!

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