10 tips for saving fuel
Written on 03-17-2022
Car manufacturers are increasing their efforts to design and launch increasingly fuel-efficient cars. Here are 10 tips for easily saving fuel or electricity.
1. Maintain your car properly
A well-maintained car consumes less. It is therefore in your best interest to scrupulously follow the instructions in the maintenance manual. And don’t forget to check the oil level regularly, as a lack of lubricant increases internal friction, and therefore resistance.
2. Measure tire pressure regularly.
Over- or under-inflated tires can cause up to 10% excess consumption. Not to mention the danger! In fact, inappropriate pressure harms grip and promotes tire wear.
3. Do not take unnecessary objects
Dismantle the rack, roof box and bicycle rack after use. They increase aerodynamic resistance and increase consumption. And empty your trunk regularly. If manufacturers strive to make their models as light as possible, it is not so that you unnecessarily overload them with heavy objects. Because each extra kilo translates into a few extra centimeters of fuel!
4. Take your foot off the
gas After starting, take your foot lightly because when cold, an engine consumes more than when it has reached cruising temperature. And avoid sudden acceleration… In short, control your right foot and to accelerate, only depress the pedal three-quarters of the way. Effective, economical and ecological!
5. Shift and downshift at the right time
Don’t rev your engine and remember to upshift on time. Driving at low speed allows you to reduce your consumption. With a gasoline engine, the ideal is to change gear at 2500 rpm. With a diesel engine you can already do this at 2000 rpm. But beware ! For more nervous recoveries, consider downshifting.
6. Anticipate
Try to maintain a constant speed. By maintaining a sufficient distance from the vehicle in front of you, you will better anticipate traffic hazards. Are you stuck in a traffic jam? Calmly follow the flow. By constantly trying to close the intervals only to brake immediately afterwards, you unnecessarily consume a lot of extra fuel.
7. Use engine braking
To slow down, use engine braking as much as possible when downshifting. Current engines then no longer consume anything, while an engine idling (clutch pedal pressed, for example) continues to burn fuel. Remember to watch for traffic behind you, as engine braking does not activate the brake lights, so drivers behind you are not alerted that you are slowing down.
8. Turn off the engine when stationary
An idling engine consumes quite a bit of fuel (0.7-0.8 liters/hour)… often more than it would take to restart it. If you find yourself stopped in front of a level crossing or a drawbridge, or waiting in line at a drive-in, it is therefore in your best interest to turn off your engine. Cars equipped with a Start/Stop system do this automatically.
9. Use cruise control
Many cars today are equipped with cruise control. This is an ideal way to maintain a constant speed on long journeys and thus limit consumption. However, its use is not recommended when traffic is heavy.
10. Plan your route
Detours and U-turns not only cost time but also fuel. With a plug-in hybrid: recharge it daily. And obviously nothing stops you from taking the bike or public transport for short trips. These modes of transport remain unbeatable in the fight against exhaust gases.