Driving with fuel efficiency in mind not only helps you save money, but it also makes you a more aware driver, benefitting the environment, the life of your vehicle and those with whom you share the road. Here are some tips:
- Remove roof and back racks when not in use and any heavy items in your vehicle or trunk. Doing so helps to decrease the drag and weight of your vehicle.
- Accelerate slowly and coast to decelerate. Avoiding quick starts and hard braking is not only good for the life of your vehicle but also is much more fuel efficient.
- Avoid idling. If you expect to have your vehicle running but not in use for even one minute, it’s more efficient to turn it off. Idling for 20 minutes can use up to one litre of gasoline.
- Drive at lower and consistent speeds helps fuel consumption. Try to leave for your destination a little earlier to avoid rushing and speeding.
- Monitor your fuel consumption. Many newer vehicles offer fuel consumption on display; the constant feedback helps many drivers to be more aware of their consumption.
- Utilize live navigation to help you avoid sitting in traffic and to find the fastest routes.
- Have your vehicle serviced regularly, including checking the tire pressure regularly.
- Only use air-conditioning when necessary. When driving in the city, open your windows, and when on the highway, use your vehicle’s use flow-through ventilation system with the windows up to help conserve fuel.
- Drive less when possible. Look to combine trips by planning ahead. Even running to the grocery store a few extra times a week can cost hundreds of dollars in fuel a year.
Making an effort to be more efficient with your fuel consumption is not only good for your pocketbook, but it also can help extend the life of your vehicle and is better for the environment.
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