A Guide to Slashing the Petrol Consumption of Your Car  

Did you know that globally, the transportation sector is responsible for a huge 13% of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions? Cars are a major culprit and as the world becomes increasingly eco-aware, drivers should be doing everything they can to minimise their footprint. Whether you drive a gas guzzling 4WD or a fuel efficient hatchback, read on for our list of tips on how to slash the petrol consumption of your car and get from A to B with as little fuel as possible. Trust us, your wallet and Mother Nature will thank you!

Don’t drive in rush hour

Continuously stopping and starting your engine is a hugely expensive way to travel. Every time you shift from stationary to first gear your engine guzzles far more fuel than what it would use when running at an average speed of around 50mph.

Take fewer trips

Rather than use your car several times a day try to combine all your errands into one trip. This will minimise the need to backtrack and continually restart your engine.

Wind up the windows

The wind in your hair may feel great but when travelling at fast speeds open windows can cause your car to chew up more fuel. The same applies to sunroofs. If you do need flow try opening up the air vents instead.

Lighten your load

Is your car boot or back seat full of unnecessary clutter? If so, clearing it out will help slash the fuel consumption of your vehicle. We’re talking everything from golf clubs and ski gear to books and clothing.

Dismantle roof racks

Roof racks, boxes and other mounted brackets increase drag which will cause your car to use more fuel. It may take a little extra time but dismantling roof racks when not in use will save you money and minimise your carbon footprint.

Maintain a constant speed

Where possible, try to maintain a constant speed of around 50mph. this has been pegged as the most fuel efficient speed so try to stick to it!

Travel in the right gear

Get to know your vehicle and what gears are best suited to different driving conditions. High revs simply waste fuel which isn’t good for your wallet, or the natural environment.

Check tyre pressure

When tyre pressure falls below optimum level your car will burn more fuel getting from A to B. To avoid unnecessary consumption do a quick tyre pressure check at least once every two weeks.  

The world is becoming increasingly eco-aware, and it’s not just CO2 emissions that are causing concern. ‘Abating Fugitive VOC Emissions More Efficiently’ delves into a fascinating Concawe study that compares two key techniques for detecting refinery fugitive VOC emissions. Both are intended to augment the safety of refinery employees, as well as minimise environmental impact of operations.