Everyone knows that driving green means driving your car in a fuel efficient way. With high petrol prices and the thought of them going even higher, there's never been a better time to consider driving green.
More and more people are turning to hybrid cars these days because of their promise of lower fuel consumption and environmental friendliness. They run on both fuel and battery-powered engines, so they consume less fuel.
Change up as early as you can, generally between 2,000 and 2,500 RPM.
Quick starts and stops can increase petrol consumption considerably. One second of high-powered driving can produce nearly the same carbon monoxide emissions as a half-hour of normal driving
If you're likely to be stationary for more than a minute or two, switch off the engine. Burning petrol when you're not even moving is getting you nowhere.
Carrying around things in your car increases your load and your consumption so; give your boot a clear out. Luggage on roof racks can also increase drag; even empty roof racks can increase drag.
Follow a regular maintenance schedule. This can improve your fuel economy by 4% and enhance engine performance.
Driving 60 miles per hour instead of 70 can save 10% in fuel economy and dramatically decrease tailpipe emissions.
Air conditioning consumes fuel, can increase NO2 emissions and uses environmentally damaging fluids.
Motor oil labelled "Energy Conserving" contains friction-reducing additives to improve fuel economy. Also, be sure to follow the oil change schedule listed in your owner's manual. Changing your oil too frequently burdens the environment.
Proper tyre inflation can save 2% to 3% in fuel economy. Tyres can lose one pound of pressure per month, so check your tyre pressure regularly.
Use regular octane. Higher octane fuels offer no benefit, decrease fuel economy and are more expensive. Follow the recommendations or guidelines for fuel octane found in your owner's manual.
Next time you get behind the wheel, keep these tips in mind. You'll be protecting the environment, as well as your wallet.
Whether you have a commendation, complaint, question or suggestion, please tell us - your feedback is important to us.
Learn More >