If you're wondering how to save petrol while driving, you’ve come to the right place. We know that fuel efficiency is on everyone’s minds, and rightly so. The good news is that you can take plenty of simple and practical steps to save fuel while driving. So, without further ado, let’s dive into some of the best ways to keep that fuel gauge from plummeting.
What Are Some of the Best Ways to Save Fuel?
Reducing the fuel consumption of your vehicle improves its efficiency and offers the driver peace of mind. Here are some of the best tips to save fuel.
1. Don't leave your car idle for a long-time
Did you know your car guzzles fuel even when just idling? It’s true! Whether stuck in traffic or waiting at a red light, turning off your engine can make a big difference. It takes about the same amount of fuel to restart your engine as it does to idle for about half a minute. So, give that ignition a break when you’re at a standstill for more than a moment.
2. Avoid driving aggressively
Now, we get it. Sometimes the road can be frustrating, but aggressive driving habits like rapid acceleration, sudden braking, and weaving in and out of traffic can seriously burn your fuel. Ease up on the gas pedal and maintain a steady speed. You should give yourself plenty of time to stop. Not only will this save fuel, but it’ll also make your drive smoother and more relaxing.
3. Carpool whenever possible
Why not share the ride and the fuel costs? Carpooling with colleagues, friends, or family members heading in the same direction can significantly cut down your fuel expenses. Plus, it’s a great way to catch up and reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
4. Use the air conditioner only when required
The sweet relief of air conditioning on a hot day is a blessing. But here’s the deal – air conditioning is a fuel-thirsty beast. So, when the weather allows, consider rolling down your windows instead. And if you do need the A/C, set it at a moderate temperature to keep things comfortable without going overboard. You should use air conditioning sparingly.
5. Ensure that your tires are inflated at the correct pressure
Maintaining the right tire pressure isn’t just about safety; it’s also a real fuel-saving superhero. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance. Hence, it makes your engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, every 2 weeks, and keep them inflated to the recommended levels.
6. Regularly maintain your car
Think of your car like a well-oiled machine because it is! Regular maintenance can work wonders for your fuel efficiency. It includes keeping your wheels aligned and using high-quality energy-conserving oils. So treat your car to some TLC, and it’ll reward you with better mileage.
7. Use cruise control while driving on the highways
When cruising on the road, consider using that handy cruise control feature. It helps maintain a steady speed, leading to better fuel efficiency by avoiding unnecessary fluctuations. You should also use manual transmission properly. It allows greater control over the vehicle’s performance.
8. Try keeping a lighter trunk
Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in your vehicle. You can use this classic trick: less weight, better mileage. Keep your trunk clutter-free and only have what you need. Extra weight puts more strain on your engine and increases fuel consumption.
9. Increase the aerodynamics of your vehicle
Ever stick your hand out of the window while driving? You’ve probably felt that resistance – that's a drag, and it affects your fuel efficiency. Keep your windows rolled up when driving at higher speeds to reduce wind drag and save fuel. You can also remove roof or bicycle racks that are not in use.
10. Keep your speed limit in check
Did you know that driving at 55 miles per hour can be 10-15% more fuel-efficient than zooming at 65 miles per hour? It’s true! So, watch your speed and enjoy the bonus of saving fuel. You can use a fuel consumption display to track fuel consumption. It will help you check the effectiveness of the above tricks.
Remember, every little change you make can add to significant savings at the pump. So, adopt these tips and tricks, and you’ll be kinder to your wallet and reduce your carbon footprint. One more thing you should consider for your vehicle is car insurance. It primarily protects your car from various unforeseen events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal speed for saving fuel while driving?
The ideal speed for saving fuel while driving is around 55 miles per hour on the highway. Driving at this steady speed can help optimise your fuel efficiency.
How can you save fuel while driving?
There are several effective ways of saving fuel while driving. These include avoiding aggressive driving behaviours such as rapid acceleration and sudden braking. Moreover, maintaining proper tire pressure and minimising air conditioning when possible also go a long way in helping you save fuel.
How to reduce fuel consumption in petrol and diesel cars?
To reduce fuel consumption in petrol and diesel cars, you can adopt fuel-saving habits, such as practising smooth and gradual acceleration, maintaining your vehicle properly with regular servicing, and minimising unnecessary idling. Additionally, using high-quality fuels and keeping your vehicle’s weight in check by removing unnecessary items from the trunk can improve fuel efficiency.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.