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Driving economically

Environmentally friendly vehicles are becoming increasingly popular in Britain, as people look to limit their impact on the atmosphere.

But if changing your car isn’t an option at the moment, a change of driving habits can be an effective alternative.

Driving economically eases fuel consumption, so not only will your vehicle produce less harmful emissions, you’ll also save money on fuel costs. If you face a long daily commute to and from work, the financial benefits can be significant.

Here are some top tips on how to make your money, petrol and car go further:

Weight issues

Don’t carry any unnecessary weight in, or on, your car. The heavier your car, the harder your engine will have to work – and subsequently the more fuel will be consumed.

If your car is fully laden, try to keep luggage on your roof rack as low as possible. This helps to minimise the aerodynamic drag which increases fuel consumption. Using a roof box can help to reduce drag, but remember to remove it when not in use.

Don’t be idle

Leaving your engine to idle in motionless traffic drains your fuel considerably, so switch your engine off.

Similarly, be sure to switch off air-conditioning, heated seats and other electronic components when they are not required.

As an alternative to air-conditioning, fully open your vehicle’s air vents. Opening windows creates drag, making the car work harder and use more fuel.

Go steady

Keeping your speed down will help reduce your emissions and fuel consumption. Accelerate gently and smoothly, anticipating traffic lights and roundabouts well in advance to avoid harsh braking. The less starting and stopping you do, the less fuel your vehicle will use.

Remember to change gears early, keeping the revs down below 3,000rpm. Drive in as high a gear as possible without the engine struggling and use downward slopes to your advantage by starting the car in second gear where possible.

Check your tyres

Keeping your tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommendations is essential to get the best possible fuel economy from your car.

Check your tyre pressures on a weekly basis, and remember to pump tyres up if you are carrying a number of passengers. The recommended pressures can normally be found in the vehicle handbook, or on the frame of the car inside the driver's door.

www.vcacarfueldata.org.uk - Fuel consumption figures