by Gemma Wiseman

Created on: July 01, 2007

The rate of a car's fuel consumption depends partly on the fuel economy rating of the car but, more importantly, on the driver's performance behind the wheel. A car's make and model may offer the driver the opportunity to reduce fuel costs, but ultimately, the savings will not be realized unless the driver practises "fuel friendly" driving skills.

Preparation

1. Ensure tyres are inflated to the car model's specifications. Remember, change of season is a vital time to check tyre pressure. In particular, under-inflated tyres impact on fuel consumption.
2. Tune the engine regularly. Again, change of season is a good time.
3. Remove excessive weight, particularly in the boot or on roof racks. Over-weighted, small cars especially drain fuel.

Driving
1. Unless it is cold weather, do not start the car and leave it running. Large amounts of fuel are consumed from idling. A manual choke should only be used until the engine runs smoothly.
2. Accelerating either too fast or too slowly puts pressure on the engine's performance and therefore more fuel is used.
3. Drive steadily at the indicated speed limit. Significant speed changing increases fuel usage.
4. Avoid high gears when turning tight corners or negotiating hills. More pressure on the engine means more fuel consumption. In automatics, lift the foot off the accelorator briefly, turn into the tight corner and then slowly accelerate. This is particularly recommended for downhill, tight corners, reducing the need for sudden braking.
5. Avoid speeding at high levels. Australian Choice Magazine states: "At 110 km/h your car uses up to 25% more fuel than at 90 km/h."
6. If caught in a traffic jam, switch off the engine rather than leaving the gears in neutral.
7. Allow braking distance at lights. Never suddenly stop. Also, allow at least a car's length between you and the car in front. This is a precaution in case the front car may turn or brake suddenly. Then you have "space" to react.
8. Air conditioning increases fuel consumption by about 10%. So it is recommended to use air conditioning wisely. Some experts suggest that a hot car should first be aired with windows down. Then, when driving, should not be turned on till the vehicle reaches at least 50km/hr. Some experts prefer 80km/hr. Take care with windows being down in the car. They are known to cause "drag" when a car reaches highway or freeway speed limits.
9. When driving a manual, do not change gears too early nor hold them for too long. Once again, the engine is overworked and the fuel is consumed if these habits are practiced.
10. When driving an automatic, ease back on the accelerator when the required speed has been set. This will allow the automatics to work smoothly.

Finally, if you are in a 2 car household, but do not need to use the second car every day of the week, perhaps consider an alternative. In Sydney NSW, a company called GoGet operates a car pool. Their cars can be used for as little as an hour for the cost of $6.60 an hour. Regulars get a reduced rate of $4.40 an hour.
Reducing a car's fuel consumption is all about selecting a car model economic on fuel and driving with an awareness of "best fuel practices". Perhaps, that may include disposing of the second car and opting for a company like GoGet!

Sources
www.choice.com.au
www.drive.com.au

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