Techniques to improve fuel consumption

The recent announcement by the Department of Energy about yet another petrol price increase is a major blow to all South Africans and their budgets.

“Consumers are already stretched to their financial limits.  The good news is that with a little forethought, planning and minor adjustments to your driving style, you can survive the recent petrol price hike,” said Graham Craggs, spokesman for Budget Insurance.

He suggested that motorists get their vehicle’s “health” checked out and correct any problems as well as ensure that their cars are serviced regularly.

“It is very important to keep-up with engine maintenance and service your car regularly. Also make sure that spark plugs and filters are changed according to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

“If your car is kept in optimal condition, you can reduce petrol costs and save yourself even more money by preventing costly repairs further down the line.

When it comes to driving for greater fuel-efficiency, there are a number of small changes motorists can make:

• Avoid harsh, stop-start driving as this causes your vehicle to guzzle fuel
• Don’t speed. High speeds result in high fuel consumption.
• Always drive in the highest gear possible without straining your engine
• Drive at a constant speed. Driving in fits and starts is not economical
• Avoid idling unnecessarily
• Don’t drive with the window wide open, especially at high speeds as this causes drag, which causes fuel consumption to go up
• Use your air conditioner sparingly. However, at speeds over 80km/h, using your air con is more fuel efficient than driving with your window open
• Avoid on-board electrical devices such as cell phone chargers as these also increase consumption
• Remove unnecessary weight. The more a car carries, the more petrol it uses.

“Plan your routes so that you can take the shortest route to where you are going and avoid unnecessary travelling,” he concluded.

“Combine as many errands and purposes into one trip as you can rather than taking out your car to run single errands.”