Top Tips for Saving Fuel

A recent poll of 2,500 drivers by the Institute of Advanced Motoristsshowed that 4 out of 5 drivers have altered the way they drive in order to save on fuel, with over half amending their driving style to try and make it more ‘eco-friendly’.

Popular ways of saving fuel included turning off air conditioning, sticking to speed limits and regularly checking tyres.

74% remained firmly against the idea of giving up their vehicle completely, but over a third said that they were making fewer journeys, or for shorter journeys - discarding the car altogether and walking.

Director of policy and research for the Institute of Advanced Motorists Neil Greig commented:
“The days of cruising at 80mph regardless of the cost are over. With rocketing fuel prices it is clear that drivers are changing their behaviour, which is good for their health and the environment. You don’t need a new car to become a greener driver. You just need to change your driving style.”

Top tips from the IAM to increase your miles per gallon include:

• Don’t speed up and slow down over speed bumps – maintain an even speed. 
• Keep windscreens clean so they don’t mist up (saves on heat and air- conditioning). 
• Close your windows when travelling at high speed to increase aerodynamics.
• Open your window when travelling at low speed to avoid using air conditioning, which increases fuel consumption. 
• Keep tyres properly inflated. 
• Try and drive at a constant speed rather than constantly stopping and starting. 
• Remove unnecessary weight from the car, for example roof racks. 
• Avoid short journeys.

With the latest AA Fuel Price Report revealing that average UK petrol prices have fallen by less than 1p in the past week, despite a fall in the wholesale cost of fuel equivalent to at least 3p a litre, these tips could save you pounds.