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More miles for your money
You don’t have to get rid of your car or even change it to stop wasting fuel. By developing a smarter driving style and with some simple car maintenance, you can cut the fuel you burn and save up to £250 every year.
When you drive, your car burns fuel and produces carbon dioxide (C02) – a harmful greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change.
Driving your car the smart way can; save you money on fuel, cut your C02 emissions, reduce wear and tear on the car, and help you enjoy safer, less stressful journeys.
Simple tips to smarter driving:
- Reduce drag. Drive only with the accessories you need. Roof racks, bike carriers and roof boxes have a big effect on you car’s aerodynamics and reduce fuel efficiency
- Pump up your tyres. Under-inflated tyres are dangerous, increase fuel consumption and wear out quicker so check your tyre pressure once a week.
- Lighten the load. Clutter in your boot is an extra drain on your engine. Removing it can reduce your fuel consumption.
- Plan ahead. Plan your journeys to avoid congestion and road works, and to make sure you don’t waste fuel getting lost!
- Check your revs. When you accelerate, change up a gear early. Between 2,000 and 2,500 rpm is ideal.
- Watch your speed. Faster speeds increase fuel consumption.
- Step off the accelerator. Stay in gear but take your foot off the accelerator as early as possible when approaching a red light or roundabout. This cuts fuel to the engine so you’re driving for free!
- Drive off from cold. Modern cars are designed to drive off straightaway. Warming up the engine just wastes fuel.
- Switch it off. Modern cars use hardly any fuel when they’re restated. If you’re going to be stationary for more than a minute, turn your engine off.
Ask the experts:
The Energy Saving Trust advice centre for North Yorkshire and the Humber can provide you with free, impartial advice on how to stop wasting fuel and money on travel.
Our team can:
- Help you choose the most fuel efficient car in it’s class so you don’t have to compromise on style and still have the right car for you.
- Develop your eco-driving technique further.
- Assist with journey planning to reduce fuel.
- Provide information to show how to use your car less e.g. public transport options, cycling and walking.
Start seeing the benefits of smarter driving today. Call the team free on 0800 512 012 or visit energysavingtrust.org.uk.
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