Since moving to Lk Macquarie I've started driving again, after 15 years without a car. I'm grateful to my Mum, whose car I 'share', so I haven't had to buy/insure/maintain my own vehicle. However I have noticed that the hip pocket is getting a whacking, even on the low kilometres that I drive.
Of course, bigger picture, we should also consider the incredible environmental impacts worldwide that transport emissions cause. The following 'Fuel Efficient Driving' tips, could help you achieve reductions:
1. Avoid hard acceleration and braking, rather 'flow' with the traffic. An aggressive driving style can increase fuel consumption by 35%, compared to a smooth style.
2. When the weather is fine, switch off the air-con and open the windows. Not using air-con will reduce fuel consumption by up to 10%.
3. For short trips, to the local shops etc, walk or ride your bicyle - this will improve your cardiovascular health too!
4. Don't keep heavy gear like golf clubs, tool bags, SCUBA equipment etc in the vehicle if not in daily use. The extra weight can increase fuel consumption by up to 24%.
5. Remove roof-racks or bull bars if not required. They increase the aerodynamic drag and weight, which will increase fuel consumption by up to 5%.
6. Check the tyre pressure regularly and keep toward the maximum specified by the manufacturer. This will reduce rolling resistance, maximise tyre life and reduce fuel consumption by up to 2%.
7. Regularly service vehicles including wheel balancing and tyre rotation. Well maintained engines are more efficient and the life of your car will be increased.
8. When refuelling, fill only to the first 'click off' and ensure the cap is replaced securely, to avoid fuel spillages.
9. Switch off your engine when stuck in traffic for any length of time eg the Swansea Bridge opening, traffic jams/accidents.
10. When driving manual vehicles, learn to synchronise down-changes by lightly revving the engine with the clutch disengaged before the lower gear is engaged: Again smooth driving pays off.
11. When driving automatics, don't rest your left foot on the brake pedal. The extra drag, besides wearing out the brakes, can increase fuel consumption by up to 5%.
Happy driving!
Resource: http://www.eartheasy.com/live_fuel_efficient_driving.htm
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