Foolproof ways to save money when motoring
Author: Robin Brown
Published: 08 October 2008
With Britain’s motorists wasting up to £7.7 billion per year on fuel due to their driving style, more people are seeking ways to save cash when driving - and the answers are simple.
By learning to drive in a more economical and efficient fashion, drivers can improve their fuel efficiency by 10 to 15 per cent, according to the AA.
By travelling too fast, driving with the air conditioning on and window open, or revving the engine too high drivers are wasting up to three gallons of fuel a mile.
For a family with two vehicles running on petrol, achieving an average of 30mpg and travelling 10,000 miles each year, a fuel saving of between £333 and £500 per annum could therefore be made.
By driving more efficiently, wear and tear on tyres and brakes is reduced, potentially reducing the need for more frequent maintenance.
The AA also offers an Eco-driver Training course that trains drivers in economical driving
The AA's Foolproof tips to increase fuel economy:
• Air-conditioning will drain power from the car and therefore lead to increased fuel usage. If you can avoid using it, leave it turned off.
• Having the window open increases drag and therefore decreases your fuel economy. Providing it’s not the middle of summer, you’ll save the pennies by leaving them closed.
• Change gear as soon as possible to avoid labouring the engine. Using a higher gear will mean the engine operates at less revolutions per minute (rpm), which can make a difference to fuel consumption
• Aggressive driving will increase the wear on tyres, which will in turn lead to higher fuel consumption. Driving within the speed limit and with a level head will not help you preserve your tyres but is safer for yourself and other road users too.
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