If every driver did the following, it would make an enormous difference to us all.
Keep an eye on your fuel consumption.
Petrol and diesel are horribly expensive, but we wouldn't go far without them, so some simple calculations can ensure that you are not wasting your money. If you use unnecessary fuel, you are emptying your wallet as well as causing avoidable pollution.
Keep a record of the amount of fuel you are using, against the miles travelled as a check on whether your'e using your car and fuel efficiently.
If you are doing your best to be eco-safe in your driving, an increase in your fuel consumption probably means that your car needs a service.
Engine braking.
This is a very fuel efficient way of slowing down, as the engine needs very little fuel when you take your foot fully off the gas pedal. Use engine braking wherever possible. Looking well ahead will help a lot.
Use higher gears.
Modern engines will deliver power when the revs are quite low, so where possible make use of the higher gears at lower speeds, saving fuel and wear.
Planning your route.
Before you set out, make sure you know where you're going, and what sort of roads you'll be using. A good, old fashioned map is a good start, as well as local traffic news. You can then figure out if there are any known hold ups, road works etc., that you can avoid.
Program your sat nav, which will usually take you the most effective route, but have a map ready in case things go wrong.
Try not to get lost, as this will cost you a lot of wasted fuel and time.
If you are forced to stop for any length of time, such as at a level crossing, switch off your engine while you wait. Many modern cars will do this for you automatically.
Reduce drag.
Drag is unnecessary weight carried in your car, or wind resistance caused by roof racks or roof boxes. So, before you set out, empty your car of equipment not needed and remove your roof rack. These simple things can save you 15% in fuel costs.
Air conditioning.
Continuous use of aircon can increase fuel use quite a lot, so use it as sparingly as is comfortable. Opening your window will help, but this will create drag, so you can't really win!
Parking.
When you have completed your eco-friendly journey to your destination, you will need to park your car.
Always try to reverse into a parking bay, so that you can drive out of it, because manoeuvering with a cold engine uses a lot of fuel and causes wear. Reverse in when the engine is warm and drive out forwards when it is cold.
In part 3, we will look at the different fuels available, petrol, diesel, LPG, and electric.
If you would like to start your eco-safe driving lessons, or find out more, please call:
John Lowe Driving, 01452 313713.
Warm Regards,
Tom & Lisa Lowe.
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