As the cost of living crisis continues to bite, motorists are looking for ways to save on their fuel.
Many are especially cautious about their fuel usage after petrol and diesel prices skyrocketed earlier this year. While prices have begun to return to normal there are fears that they could once again rise after oil group Opec+ voted to reduce the amount of oil being exported to Western countries.
There are a number of ways to keep fuel consumption down, one of which involves tweaking your driving habits. Simply driving more economically could help spread out your visits to the pump, with the speed at which you drive being one of the most crucial factors in relation to fuel usage.
The optimum fuel-efficient speed for most cars is 45mph to 50mph, reports Wales Online. Of course, the speed at which you drive must always first fall under the limit and should be appropriate for the road that you are driving on.
Greg Wilson, founder of Quotezone.co.uk, said: "Frugal drivers can get the maximum mileage from the fuel tank by incorporating money-saving driving techniques into their everyday journeys. Eco-driving can have a huge impact on how much money you spend at the petrol pump."
While eco-driving can be both beneficial and safe, motorists should never cut the engine while on the road. Coasting - defined as a vehicle travelling in neutral or with the clutch pressed down - is covered under Rule 122 of the Highway Code.
Motorists are advised against this method to save fuel as it can reduce driver control. Failure to have proper control of a vehicle can result in a potential fine of £1,000 or even discretionary disqualification.
Proper eco-driving, according to the insurance experts at Quotezone includes driving at a smooth and consistent speed. Sudden braking and speeding up burns more fuel which is why it’s important to gauge the flow of traffic.
Likewise, motorists can cut down on consumption by changing gears as early as possible. Switching into the highest possible gear keeps the revs low and saves petrol.
For example, at a 40mph speed a car will consume 25 percent more fuel in third gear compared to fifth. Under normal conditions the gears should be changed when the revs are between 1,500rpm and 2,000 rpm.
On top of the driving tricks, turning off additional functions like air con, keeping tyres inflated to the right pressure and decluttering your vehicle to remove excess weight can all help improve fuel consumption.
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