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Old 1st May 2013, 05:27   #5
NigelOBB
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You could save 15% off your fuel costs by using these fuel efficient driving tips.

As well as saving money and fuel, fuel efficient driving will help you to drive safely and reduce wear and tear on components like tyres, clutch and gearbox.

1. Shift to a higher gear as soon as possible
Driving at lower engine speeds reduces fuel consumption. Change up between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm.
2. Anticipate road conditions and drive more smoothly
Rather than last minute braking, decelerate smoothly by easing off the accelerator as early as possible. This allows the car to decelerate using engine braking.
With the car in gear and the accelerator released, a modern car uses virtually no fuel at all. This form of braking is also gentler on the car and its occupants.
3. Maintain a steady speed in as high a gear as possible
Driving at a steady speed requires little effort for the engine. Avoiding unnecessary acceleration and heavy braking helps reduce your fuel consumption.
4. Drive a little slower
Stick to the speed limits and make your fuel go further. For most cars the most efficient speed is 45-50 mph. The faster you go above this, the more fuel you will use. Driving at 50mph rather than 70mph reduces your fuel consumption by 10% at a stroke.
5. Switch off if you're stationary for more than a minute
When stuck in traffic or waiting for someone, switch off your engine. Switching off whenever it's safe to do so can soon lead to significant savings.
6. Keep your tyres properly inflated
Under-inflated tyres not only lead to poor road holding but also cause excessive drag and resistance, increasing fuel consumption. Both over and under-inflated tyres can be dangerous to road holding, so make sure your tyres are at their recommended pressure.
7. Switch off air conditioning
Use air conditioning sparingly as your engine has to work harder to power the air conditioning machinery. If driving at low speed, open the window instead.
8. Close your windows if travelling at 50mph or more
The aerodynamic drag on your car of an open window at speeds of 50mph or more adds to your fuel usage. Keep your windows closed at high speeds.
9. Remove roof boxes and racks if not being used
Car designers try hard to make their vehicles as aerodynamic as possible. Adding a roof box or rack spoils this by increasing drag on your car, making your engine work harder and increases fuel usage.
10. Remove unnecessary items
Carrying excess weight in a vehicle increases fuel consumption. Heavy or large items, such as tool kits and golf clubs should be removed when not required.
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