Fuel efficient driving is really simple and can save a surprising amount of fuel. To improve your driving technique, check out these tips.
Avoid short trips
Walk to the dairy. About a third of New Zealand car trips are less than two kilometers in length. Cut down on unnecessary driving and reduce your fuel bills, mechanical wear on your engine and contribute to better air quality.
Drive smoothly
Lay off the pedals when driving around town. Accelerate smoothly and slowly away from green lights and stop gradually for red lights. Change gear early (but don't labour the engine). If you drive an automatic, allow the transmission to change up early by accelerating on a light throttle. Don't accelerate hard from rest, but let the car move off gently.
Look ahead
Check what's happening, maintain a safe following distance and you'll keep at a more constant speed. Look ahead and ease off the pedal if the traffic lights are about to change, speed limit changes or traffic stops. It's better economically, to slow down early rather than brake late
Corner smoothly
Don't brake hard for corners and accelerate out. Slow gently, negotiate and exit the corner on a light throttle.
Make hills work for you
Lift off the throttle as you crest the hill and use the car's momentum to get you over the top. Build up speed before an uphill stretch.
Love your car!
A little love goes a long way. Regular servicing, the right tyres for the conditions, correct tyre pressure and wheel alignment make a difference. A well-maintained car can use 10 to 20% less fuel than an inadequately maintained one.
Watch your air con
Only use air conditioning when absolutely necessary as it tends to eat fuel, up to 8% more in fact. Other features such as the rear window demist can also be a drain, so make sure you switch them off when they've done their job.
Keep your load down
Sounds obvious, but a heavier vehicle means the engine has to work harder. So take those golf clubs out of the boot after the game, remove the bike rack when you're not using it.
Reduce idling time
Don't park for long periods with your engine idling and avoid peak hour traffic where ever possible.
Don't speed
Driving faster doesn't necessarily mean you'll get there faster. By travelling at 100km/h instead of 110km/h you can cut around 10% off your fuel bill.
More information
More information
Our friendly AA Technical Services Helpline can help and advise all motorists on many general problems, including repairs and car buying advice:
- AA Members enjoy this service for free, call toll free on 0800 500 333
- Non AA Members can call 0900 58 324 (a flat fee of $7 per call applies)