10 fuel-saving tips this festive season

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Here are 10 tips on how to save fuel:

1. One of the first aspects of driving in a fuel-efficient manner is to be aware of your driving style. If you drive like Lewis Hamilton during a Grand Prix race, you’re never going to save fuel, but if you concentrate on driving smoothly, your fuel will last longer.

2. Don’t constantly speed up and brake as this type of driving burns additional fuel. Try to rather keep your speed constant while accelerating and braking gradually.

3. Give yourself enough time to get to a destination and get into the habit of leaving early to ensure you aren’t forced into driving fast. Also try to avoid rush hour traffic.

4. Ensure that your car is serviced according to its service schedule as this will also help you identify fuel-sapping problems ahead of time.

5. Check your tyre pressure regularly as low tyre pressure will result in your engine working harder and burning more fuel to get those tyres moving.

6. If you use your vehicle to carry heavy objects, ensure that they are not in your car for longer than needs be as excess weight impacts on fuel economy.

7. Use cruise control whenever the opportunity presents itself as this technology accelerates and decelerates the vehicle smoothly.

8. Stick to the speed limit. You might think you’re saving time by breaking the law, but you’ll end up spending more on fuel if you drive fast and, of course, you’ll be spending more on traffic fines too.

9. Be aware of how you use the air-con as your car uses more fuel to power your air-con at low speeds as opposed to highway-cruising speeds.

10. Plan your route ahead of time and check navigation apps to choose the shortest, hassle-free route to your destination.