The Automobile Association (AA) is predicting a fuel price increase of up to 55 cents per litre and urging motorists to make the most of a bad situation.
In terms of making the most of every tank, the AA looked at information from the US Department of Energy which said smart driving could increase your car’s fuel economy by as much as 40 per cent.
In addition to smart driving, poorly maintained vehicles and bad driving habits are also leading causes of unnecessary fuel consumption.
“If you want to save and keep your vehicle running for longer, investing in good maintenance and changing your driving habits to economy mode are essential,” said Graham Graggs, a Budget Insurance spokesperson.
The insurance giant also gave its tips for a better fuel economy:
• Service your vehicle regularly
• Check your vehicle’s wheel alignment
• Check for under-inflated tyres
• Close your windows while driving
• Reduce your vehicle’s weight when possible
• Reduce drag by removing roof racks and other accessories when they are not in use
• Do not speed
• Avoid stop-start driving
• Drive at the lowest speed in the highest gear
• Use air conditioning only when necessary
• Plan your trips
• Avoid traffic
“Saving on fuel by keeping your car in tip-top shape and changing the way you drive may seem like a bit of a hassle, but if you fill up 48 times a year at R700 per tank, a 40 per cent reduction in fuel consumption could save you more than R13 000 a year,” Graggs said.
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