Driving economically isn't rocket science so a how-to-save-fuel advice column might seem about as useful as an instruction booklet on how to get dressed every morning.
But there might just be one or two points you've skipped in that great fuel-saving quest. So here are tips provided by Dave Johnston, head of AA driver training in South Africa:
Driving style - Major Points:
- Avoid accelerating harshly from stops.
- Avoid erratic acceleration, try to keep accelerator in the same position.
- Keep engine revs as low as possible.
- Use the highest gear possible for the conditions.
- Decelerate early for stops.
- Look and plan well ahead (at least 12-15sec) so you can see obstructions and hazards early and plan your lane changes.
- Learn to "pace" yourself in the traffic to avoid having to stop at most traffic lights. In other words, keep the vehicle moving.
There are many benefits in doing this - not just saving fuel.
Minor Points:
- Avoid unnecessary idling of the engine. The vehicle is most efficient when being driven at the rpm where the engine produces the most torque (Nm). Check this in the owner's manual under engine specifications.
Vehicle - Major Points:
- Have your vehicle serviced and properly tuned according to its schedule. Fuel mixture settings, ignition timing, spark plugs and air filter play major roles in ensuring that an engine runs efficiently.
- Correct tyre pressures. Under-inflated tyres waste fuel by increasing rolling resistance.
- Correct wheel alignment. Fuel is also wasted if wheel alignment is not set correctly. This also has accelerates tyre wear.
- Brakes should not bind and all wheels should rotate freely.
Minor Points:
- Keep windows closed to reduce wind drag.
- Wide tyres cause more resistance at speed resulting in more fuel being used.
- A highly polished vehicle creates less wind drag.
- Avoid leaving unnecessary heavy objects in your vehicle and take off the roof rack when you come home from holiday.
- Drive an aerodynamic vehicle.
- Using the air-conditioner increases fuel consumption slightly.
