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InfoPoint: Driving Tips to Help Save Fuel

Posted in News on Wednesday, June 17th, 2026

With the rising cost of living continuing to put pressure on household budgets, many people are looking for practical ways to cut everyday expenses. One area where savings can often be made is fuel consumption. Information Officer Ashley Everitt has shared a range of useful tips to help drivers reduce how much fuel they could use.

Maintain the Vehicle

One of the most effective ways to improve fuel efficiency is to keep your vehicle well maintained. A car that is regularly serviced and cared for will run more smoothly and use fuel more effectively. Tyres are a key part of this. Not only should they be in good condition, but they must also be inflated correctly. Incorrect tyre pressure, whether too high or too low, can reduce fuel efficiency and negatively affect performance. Checking your tyre pressure regularly and adjusting it in line with your vehicle manual, especially when carrying extra weight, can make a noticeable difference.

Always Plan Accordingly

Planning ahead can significantly reduce the amount of fuel you use. Before setting off, it is worth checking route options online to determine which is most efficient. The fastest or shortest route is not always the most economical. Routes with fewer hills, less traffic, and opportunities to maintain a steady speed are often more fuel-efficient.

Combining journeys is another simple but effective strategy. Instead of making several short trips, try to complete multiple tasks in one outing. This reduces the number of times you start your engine from cold, which is when fuel consumption is typically highest. Fewer trips overall will naturally lead to lower fuel use.

Drive Smoothly and Always be Alert

Driving style has a major impact on fuel consumption. Rapid acceleration and harsh braking can quickly increase the amount of fuel your vehicle uses. Instead, aim for smooth and steady driving. Accelerate gently, brake gradually, and maintain a consistent speed wherever possible.

Using the correct gear is also important. Shifting up promptly and driving in the highest suitable gear helps keep engine revs low, which reduces fuel consumption. The higher the revs, the more fuel your engine is likely to use.

Being observant of the road ahead can also help. Anticipating changes such as slowing traffic or upcoming junctions allows you to adjust your speed gradually, avoiding unnecessary braking and acceleration.

Understand Your Vehicle

For longer journeys, it is useful to understand the speed at which your vehicle operates most efficiently. This “optimum speed” can vary depending on the make and model, but maintaining a steady pace close to this level can help reduce fuel usage over time.

It is also important to minimise unnecessary idling. If you are stationary for an extended period, switching off the engine can save fuel.

Windows and Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is known to increase fuel consumption, but opening windows is not always the better alternative. At higher speeds, open windows can create additional drag, which may reduce fuel efficiency even more than using air conditioning.

The impact of each option can vary depending on driving conditions, so it is often best to choose whichever keeps you most comfortable and alert. Staying focused and comfortable behind the wheel is essential for safe driving.

Car Weight and Drag

The weight your vehicle carries and the drag it creates both have a significant effect on fuel efficiency. Carrying unnecessary items adds extra strain on the engine, causing it to use more fuel. It is a good idea to remove anything you do not need and only take essential items on your journey.

External accessories such as roof racks or carriers can also increase drag, making your car less aerodynamic. If they are not in use, removing them can help your vehicle move more efficiently and reduce fuel consumption.

By following these practical tips, maintaining your vehicle, planning journeys carefully, driving smoothly, and reducing excess weight, you can make a noticeable difference to your fuel usage. Over time, these small changes can lead to meaningful savings, helping to ease the financial strain of rising living costs while also supporting more environmentally friendly driving habits.

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