Which driving technique saves fuel?

Rising prices in fuel mean filling up a tank can prove extremely costly. However, there are ways you can drive more economically just by changing your driving techniques to make a tank last longer and save costs. In this article, we look at which driving technique saves fuel so you can reap the benefit.

There are actually a number of different driving techniques that you can implement to save fuel, so we have looked at some of the best methods for you here:

1. Maintain your vehicle

2. No harsh acceleration

3. Keep the speed consistent if possible

4. Stick to the speed limit

5. Use a higher gear

6. Switch the AC off

7. Keep the engine warm

8. Don’t idle the engine

Maintain your vehicle

One driving technique that saves fuel is by keeping on top of your vehicle maintenance. Following these simple maintenance steps will help save you fuel:

• Regularly check tyre pressure and keep tyres inflated to the correct pressure as indicated in your vehicle’s manual. 
• Service your vehicle regularly. Services can highlight any issues such as leaks with fuel pumps. 
• If you notice any fluid under your vehicle after a dry day, then be sure to take it to a garage to check for any leaks which could be causing your vehicle to lose fuel more quickly.

A well-maintained fleet can even reduce your vehicle insurance, saving you more money.

No harsh acceleration

You also need to change how you drive your vehicle if you want to save on fuel. If you accelerate and brake harshly, then you are using more fuel than you need to.

Keep focused on what is going on around you and give yourself plenty of time to break - unless there’s an emergency. The advice is the same for accelerating; pulling away at a normal speed when waiting at traffic lights or junctions will save fuel.

Keep the speed consistent

When driving, try and keep your speed as consistent as possible as this will ensure you use less fuel. To help do this, use cruise control if your vehicle has the functionality. 

Cruise control will help to keep your vehicle at a consistent speed, usually the speed limit or just below. Stick to long straight roads such as A-roads or motorways, which have a consistent speed limit and require less breaking (unless there is traffic).

The only time not to use cruise control as a driving technique to save fuel is when going up a hill. Vehicles use more fuel when the road is inclined, as the engine needs more power to keep the speed consistent. It is best to get more momentum in your speed before travelling upwards.

Stick to the speed limit

As mentioned above, always stick to the speed limit. Not only is it illegal and dangerous to speed but it can also save fuel. Driving at faster speeds will use more petrol, even if you think it will get you to your destination faster. If you are driving on the motorway or A-road, stick to 55-65 mph, as this is proven to be the best speed for increased fuel economy.

Use a higher gear

Another driving technique that saves fuel is to drive using a higher gear. Instead of driving in second or third gear around urban areas, make sure you use the gear that keeps you under the 1,300 to 2,500 revs per minute (this varies depending on whether you have a petrol or diesel vehicle).

Switch the AC off

Driving with the AC on may be more comfortable, but it also requires a lot of fuel to run. Limit your use of air conditioning while driving and instead open a window or just use the standard blowers that come with the vehicle. You can save at least 4% of fuel by not using the air conditioning.

Keep the engine warm

Vehicle engines do not like to be cold. To save on fuel consumption, you should avoid short journeys or consolidate multiple short journeys in one trip to avoid the engine getting cold. The warmer the engine the better fuel consumption will be, and the more money you save.

Do not idle the engine

Idling the engine can use more fuel than you need to, such as sitting in traffic or leaving the engine running while your vehicle is stationary.

Do not leave the car idling for too long. If you are parked up and waiting, then turn your engine off to save fuel. Most new vehicles come with stop-start features, which switch the engine off when the vehicle is left idle and the engine then restarts when you put your foot on either the clutch or accelerator pedal. 

Automatic stop-start motion makes it easier to stop the car from idling. However, if your vehicle does not have this installed, you will need to remember to switch the engine off yourself.

Only carry what you need in your vehicle

Vehicles that weigh more typically use more fuel. Before travelling, make sure you only have what you need in your vehicle and remove any extra weight or loads that are not needed.

Each of these tips should help you understand the best driving technique to save fuel. Combine them all, and you’ll easily ensure more miles per gallon.

If you manage a fleet of vehicles, to reduce your amount of fuel consumption you can even use fleet technology to monitor drivers’ behaviour, which will help highlight drivers who need additional training on how to drive more economically. You can then share these tips and include them as part of your fleet training handbook.