Driving Style

The way you drive affects how often you have to fill up.

Studies have shown that there is a significant correlation between driving behaviours, emissions and fuel economy. By following the rules of eco-driving you will not only benefit the environment but reduce vehicle operating costs, but is also safer for both yourself and other road users.

• Slow down and save fuel
  • Speed limits are the maximum lawful speeds that may be driven in ideal circumstances, not the minimum you should expect to drive at. Not only is driving above the speed limit uneconomical but it’s also extremely dangerous, However, did you know that driving at 15mph or under creates the most pollution? Aim to keep speed between 20mph and 60mph but always abide to the speed limit set in that area
  • The benefits of driving slower are particularly evident where large trucks and goods vehicles are concerned. With these types of vehicle, fuel mileage decreases by 2.2% for every 1mph increment over 55mph.
• Limit idling
  • Not many people are aware of the fact that modern vehicle technology improvements have eliminated the need to warm up vehicle engines. You should not leave your vehicle idling as it produces excess emissions and wastes fuel. Where possible turn the ignition key off when operating away from public roads. Ideal situations where this can reduce fuel emissions are in a driveway, a car park or in a car wash.
  • Note: This should only ever be done where there is NO possibility of collision. Turning the ignition key off may disable certain vehicle features, including safety features such as airbags. It is recommended that you leave your vehicle running in city traffic or similar busy conditions.
• Use the air conditioning/ defroster sparingly
  • Your air conditioning system can use up to 1 gallon of fuel per tank to cool the vehicle. In the summer, minimise the use of air conditioning by using the vent setting as much as possible. At slow speeds, turn off the air conditioning and open the windows to cool the interior. However, once you exceed 40mph, the drag caused by having your window down wastes more fuel than the air-conditioning. In the winter, the defrosting system can place a significant load on the engine. In winter, use this selectively and try to alternate between the heater and defroster as necessary.
• Avoid stopping and starting
  • Every time you stop and start again in traffic, the engine uses more fuel and therefore produces more CO₂. Keep your eye on traffic ahead and lights, slowing down early to give traffic a chance to get moving again by the time you reach it.
• Drive calmly
  • Keep an eye on your revs and change up before 2500rpm (petrol) and 2,000rpm (diesel). Revving up aggressively wastes fuel and increases emissions.
  • Harsh acceleration and braking can use up to 30% more fuel, causes increased wear and tear on the vehicle and is dangerous, particularly in urban areas.
• Gear changes
  • Try to maintain a consistent throttle pressure, as this can minimise gear changes, which could help improve fuel economy. If you have a manual transmission, fuel economy typically improves when shifts occur at lower speeds.
  • You should never rest your foot on the clutch or brake pedal as this could prove extremely dangerous.