The rising cost of fuel and the effect that it is going to have on the budget of households are top of mind for many, especially with indications that another sharp increase in the price of diesel may be coming in May.
The conflict between Iran, the USA and Israel, with the resulting close of the Strait of Hormuz, which is a main route for 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas, has caused worldwide increases in the cost of fuel.
These increases will filter down to consumers as the cost of the manufacturing of goods, producing of food and transport costs will rise sharply too if this conflict is not resolved.
There are, however, ways to buffer your own budget. Apart from cutting unnecessary expenses and luxuries, one can also ensure one’s vehicle is not gulping more fuel than necessary.
Correct tyre pressure
According to the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA), a well-maintained car uses between 10% and 20% less fuel than one that has been neglected. For an average vehicle with a 45-litre tank, it means R100 to R200 worth of fuel is wasted per tank.
Measures like servicing your vehicle regularly, ensuring the correct tyre pressure (under inflate tyres causes higher fuel use) and proper wheel alignment have an effect on fuel consumption.
According to a report by the European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) fuel consumption of vehicles travelling at 90 km/h was 30% better than that of vehicles travelling at 120 km/h.
The AA advises that motorists should try and not accelerate harshly as it contributes to higher fuel consumption. Rather pull away from stop streets and traffic lights gradually. Keep your vehicle’s revs lower and those with automatic vehicles should accelerate on a light throttle for early gear changes.
Driving at a constant speed preventative
Try driving at a constant speed to avoid harsh breaking as it is more economical. Achieve this by keeping your attention on the traffic and keeping a safe following distance.
One can save fuel by taking advantage of your vehicle’s momentum. Build up speed before an uphill stretch and stop accelerating once you are at the top.
Reduce the time your car idles. When it has to be longer than 30 seconds, rather switch it off, although this is not always possible in traffic, so rather try and avoid peak traffic times.
With cooler weather setting in turn down your airconditioning. The AA says using an aircon is more fuel-efficient than driving with your windows down. However, it still increases fuel consumption.
Careful planning will save you money in the long run. Plan ahead and avoid unnecessary trips. That quick dash to the shops, taking a forgotten lunch box to school or joy ride for the fun of it, comes at a price.
An average car that is not too old, usually uses between 6 to 10 litres per 100 km (L/100 km), depending on the size and driving conditions. At a cost of R23,25 per litre for petrol (Unleaded 93) that quick trip of 20 km will cost you between R27 and R46.
