Drivers have been complaining about being unable to achieve their car’s claimed fuel economy for as long as they’ve been filling up their cars.
Plus, now we have EVs and hybrid models to worry about, too, with range anxiety a very real issue when you're between charging stations.
But all is not lost, because as there are some simple ways to drive your car more efficiently, saving money on fuel or helping your battery go further.
Here are our best fuel-saving tips.
1. Plan your route and leave plenty of time
The route and time of day you travel will have the biggest impact on your car’s performance. Sitting in traffic isn’t just a waste of your time, but a waste of fuel and energy, too.
Main roads with good quality road surfaces, driven before or after rush hour, are your best bet for excellent fuel economy. Also, avoid hills where possible.
If you’re not rushing about, you won't use as much fuel, so give yourself plenty of time.
2. Look after your car
For petrol and diesel cars, skimping on servicing or choosing the cheapest oil that isn't recommended by the vehicle manufacturer is a false economy. Your car has been designed to exacting standards and operates within fine tolerances. Cut corners and it won’t work as well.
Follow the manufacturer's servicing schedule, check the condition of tyres and their air pressure, and consider fitting ‘eco-tyres’ next time you need replacements. Have the tracking of your wheels checked and keep tyres at the correct air pressure, too. Michelin research shows that tyres underinflated by just 15psi can reduce a car’s fuel efficiency by around six per cent.
If you drive an electric or hybrid car, it’s important to look after the battery. Wherever possible, charge slowly using your AC charger, and save the rapid charging for when you really need it.
It’s sensible to maintain your battery level at around 85% and avoid leaving it almost empty (under 5%) for too long. If you have a smart charging system, make good use of it to maintain the health of your battery.
And, whichever car you drive, it's best to remove unnecessary items from your boot (boxes, pushchairs, etc..), and take down roof racks or boxes when not in use. They'll add more weight to your vehicle, slowing it down and increasing energy consumption.
3. Turn the air-conditioning off
Switch off the air-conditioning if you’re really serious about saving fuel.
Car air-conditioning systems use a lot of energy to cool air into your vehicle’s cabin and can increase your fuel consumption by up to 10%.
To save fuel consumption, wait until the air conditioning system has sufficiently cooled your car to a more pleasant temperature – then either decrease the flow rate, adjust the temperature, or even turn off the air-conditioning entirely.
The same goes for EVs - don't forget the battery powers everything, including your stereo, your heated seats and your air-con. The more features you have running, the more energy you'll use.
4. Drive smoothly and stick to the speed limit
Anyone can drive economically. The secret is to be smooth and maintain steady progress. Don’t speed away from traffic lights and stick to all speed limits. You should push smoothly on the accelerator pedal and aim to build speed steadily.
Driving at a steady speed of 50mph instead of 70mph can improve fuel economy by up to 25%. Your EV will thank you, too, by eking out a few more miles on one charge - remember, the more you hit the pedals, the more energy you're wasting.
However, that doesn’t mean you should drive more slowly than is appropriate for the road you’re on.
If your EV has regenerative breaking, it’s worth using it, especially on a long journey. Your braking system will act like a generator, converting any heat from braking back into battery power. Every little helps.
5. Pay attention
As with all aspects of driving, paying attention, spotting potential hazards and anticipating other drivers’ intentions will make you safer and more efficient at the wheel. So, look ahead, read the road and anticipate as much as possible; the aim is to maintain momentum.
6. Don't dip the clutch
Dipping the clutch or shifting into neutral when a car is coasting is a mistake, and could be dangerous.
Modern engines have sophisticated computers that know, for example, when a car is going downhill. So, simply lift off the throttle and leave the car in a high gear, and the computer will cut fuel to the engine.
With modern cars, there’s nothing to be gained by coasting.
