We all know that vehicles rely on fuel to operate. However, this doesn’t imply that you can’t adopt certain practices to optimise your fuel consumption.

Maintain Tire Pressure: When tires aren’t adequately inflated, they create greater friction on the road. Every journey consumes more fuel due to this increased resistance. By maintaining proper tire pressure, possibly preventing up to a 10% decrease in fuel efficiency caused by underinflation of 10 psi.

• Declutter Your Trunk: If you’re one of those who stow away numerous items in the trunk, it’s time for a rethink. Remember, an additional 50kg of weight can lead to a 2% rise in fuel usage. So, only store essentials!
• Use Air Conditioning Judiciously: It might seem counterintuitive, but driving at speeds above 80km/h with the windows down can guzzle more fuel due to wind resistance. In such cases, it’s wiser to use the air conditioning.
• Maintain Optimal Speed: Cruising at high speeds significantly increases wind resistance, leading to more fuel consumption. However, moving too slowly isn’t economical either. For the best fuel economy, keep your speed between 50 and 90 km/h on highways.
• Smooth Acceleration is Key: Revving the engine unnecessarily consumes more fuel. Aim for gradual and steady acceleration, as a lower RPM typically translates to lesser fuel usage.
• Avoid Abrupt Braking: Excessive braking, especially when tailgating, can lead to more fuel usage due to the subsequent need for acceleration. Additionally, tailgating isn’t just fuel-inefficient; it’s unsafe.
• Utilize Top Gear or Cruise Control: Whether you’re driving an automatic or manual vehicle, aiming for a constant speed or higher gears, when suitable, can mean fewer engine revolutions and thus less fuel consumed.
• Adopt Predictive Driving Habits: Anticipate your next move by observing the road conditions ahead. Gently decelerating before a red light or gradually accelerating before a hill can help in conserving fuel.
• Strategise Your Commute: Regular halts and starts in bumper-to-bumper traffic can strain your engine and increase fuel usage. Whenever feasible, try to navigate around the peak traffic hours.
• Limit Idling: If you find yourself in a situation where you’re waiting for more than three minutes, it’s advisable to turn off your engine. An idling engine still consumes fuel.

Lastly, a consistent vehicle servicing routine is crucial for ensuring fuel efficiency. Engines comprise intricately connected components. If these aren’t maintained properly, unwanted build-ups can hamper the engine’s performance. Furthermore, selecting a quality engine oil can drastically reduce internal friction, combat residues, and enhance fuel economy.

If it’s been a while since your last car check-up, perhaps it’s time to schedule a service appointment.