Rev up your savings: 5 driving tricks to keep fuel costs in check

With the fuel price on a topsy-turvy spiral and consumers needing to stretch every rand as far as possible, your driving style could save you money. 

Fuel is a large part of every household’s budget, so following a few easy steps will lighten the blow at the pumps.

“Drivers face challenging periods ahead with geopolitical tensions creating uncertainty, and while one cannot change these factors, how one drives remains within their control.

"Defensive driving is the most effective way to not only reduce the tragedy and cost of accidents but also plays an essential role in decreasing fuel bills,” says CEO of MasterDrive Eugene Herbert.

He points to five factors that could see consumption improve and ultimately save money.

Anticipatory driving

Anticipatory driving is the most essential tool in defensive driving and in eco-driving as well.

“Looking 12 seconds ahead allows drivers to predict traffic conditions and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. Studies estimate that frequently accelerating and braking can increase fuel consumption by 10 to 40%.

"Unnecessary wear and tear is also caused by this kind of driving.” 

Avoid speeding

While we all enjoy a bit of speed, speed management is an effective way to save fuel. “Reducing speed by just 20km/h can cut fuel consumption by up to 20% in certain conditions.

"Particularly with highway driving, maintaining a consistent speed of 100km/h (or at least not exceeding 120km/h) normally allows for optimal fuel efficiency,” says Herbert.

Efficient gear changes

Many modern automatic cars are programmed to change gears as soon as possible, and some manual transmissions have a pointer advising you when to change gears as part of a fuel efficiency programme.

However, not all cars have that software, so keep in mind that engine efficiency peaks when RPMs are kept around 2,500 to 3,000. 

“This can also potentially reduce consumption by 20%. Combined with oil changes and regular vehicle maintenance, it can significantly impact fuel budgets.”

Planning

Plan your trips to similar areas to coincide and complete all driving at once. “When you start up several times a day, a vehicle's engine takes longer to reach optimal efficiency.

"This is especially true in the current cold weather. Use carpooling and apps to reduce or avoid congestion, as this can increase consumption by up to 40% depending on conditions,” says Herbert.

Cold weather

While not a driving skill, but of relevance currently, winter can affect fuel consumption.

“If possible, park your car inside to increase the initial temperature of your engine and interior upon starting in the mornings. The engine warms up faster and can reduce the need to demist windows or heat the interior.”

“Driving in this manner can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% in total.  In challenging economic times, these combined benefits make fuel-efficient driving an essential skill for every South African driver,” concluded Herbert.