How to eco-drive
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We all like to think we are good drivers.But by making some simple changes to the way you drive you could reduce your fuel consumption and save money - as much as two months' worth of fuel each year! Here are our top tips for fuel efficient driving... |
1. Shift to a higher gear as soon as possible
Driving at lower engine speeds reduces fuel consumption; change up between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm.
2. Anticipate road conditions and drive more smoothly
Rather than last minute braking, decelerate smoothly by easing on the throttle as early as possible. This allows the car to decelerate using engine braking. With the car in gear and the throttle released, a modern car uses no fuel at all. This form of braking is also smoother on the car and its occupants.
3. Maintain a steady speed in as high a gear as possible
Driving at a steady speed requires little effort for the engine. Avoiding unnecessary acceleration and heavy braking helps reduce your fuel consumption.
4. Drive a little slower than your normal speed
Stick to the speed limits and make your fuel go further. For most cars the most efficient speed is 45–50 mph. The faster you go above this, the more fuel you will use. Driving at 50mph rather than 70mph reduces your fuel consumption by 10% at a stroke.
5. Switch off rather than idling if you’re stationary for more than a minute or so
When stuck in traffic or waiting for someone, switch off your engine. Switching off in appropriate situations can soon lead to significant savings.
6. Keep your tyres at optimum pressures
Under-inflated tyres not only lead to poor road holding but also cause excessive drag and resistance, and as a result increase fuel consumption. Both over and under-inflated tyres can be dangerous to road holding, so make sure your tyres are at their recommended pressure.
7. Switch off air conditioning unless absolutely necessary
Use air conditioning sparingly as your engine has to work harder to make the air conditioning machinery work. If driving at low speed, open the window.
8. Close your windows if travelling at 50mph or more
The aerodynamic drag on your car of an open window at speeds of 50mph or more can add to your fuel usage. Keep your windows closed at high speeds.
9. Remove roof boxes and roof racks if not being used
Car designers work hard to make their products as aerodynamic as possible. Adding a roof box or rack can spoil this by increasing drag on your car and therefore increasing your engine workload and fuel usage. A Spanish research study found that using a large roof box whilst travelling at motorway speeds could increase your fuel consumption by as much as 39%.
So, if not in use, remove them.
10. Remove excessive weight that is not needed
Carrying excess weight in a vehicle increases fuel consumption, so heavy or large items, e.g. heavy tool kits, golf clubs, etc should be removed when not required.
| For a printable version of these tips, download our fact sheet: |  |
Top Tips for Eco-Driving |
Contact us:
If you would like more details on eco-driving or advice on alternative transport options and purchasing a low CO2 vehicle, telephone us on:
T: Freephone* 0800 512 012 *From a landline
