15/10/2019 News
LOOKING TO SAVE FUEL? HERE ARE THE REAL ECO-DRIVING TIPS FOR YOU
Saving fuel means a lot for every car owner, especially those who are on the road day in and day out. Engine type and technology as well as road condition certainly contribute to fuel efficiency, but they are not the only factors. There is another, perhaps less obvious, fuel-saving source that could explain why one car consumes more than another car of the exact same build.
It’s called eco-driving – a term that refers to a wide-range of driving techniques that could be your key of spending less on fuel. We have compiled nine of the most important ones for you to adopt. You may need to change your driving habit, and it may be difficult at first. But, practice makes perfect and you would certainly appreciate lower fuel cost once you have them under your belt – especially if fuel consumption has been an issue.
1. Don’t warm up too long
Modern engines don’t need long to get warm – time wise, they don’t take more than 3 minutes. In fact, you can start driving as soon as the temperature gauge moves.
2. Avoid idling
Do you know that average cars consume fuel up to 130 cc of their total capacity in just 10 minutes? So, think again before you leave your engine idle for too long.
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3. Manage that AC
Indonesia’s tropical climate indeed makes it a challenge to be in a car entirely without AC. Here’s a way to stay cool without cranking up fuel consumption: ease your compressor – and thereby your engine’s work -- by keeping cabin temp around 25 degrees Celsius. Also, avoid setting your AC at its coolest, usually 18 degrees Celsius, as it may make your engine consumes 12% more fuel.
4. Gently accelerate
Accelerate gently after you start at around 20km/hour for 5 seconds. This simple way can reduce fuel consumption by 11%.
5. Keeping stable speed
Your engine thanks you when you drive steadily at a certain speed level, e.g no more than 80 km/hour. Pay attention to the tachometer as well; if you drive a manual, ideally you change gear at below 3,000 rpm or, if you drive an automatic, keep engine rotation speed at around 2,000 rpm.
6. Make use of engine brake
Decelerate by engine braking, i.e. by releasing your accelerator pedal. It ceases fuel supply and fuel consumption will be reduced by around 2%. Don’t forget to keep a safe distance with cars ahead of you.
7. Avoid traffic when you can
Being stuck in traffic, which means you need to accelerate and brake every few meters, even for just 10 minutes will increase fuel use around 14%. Anticipate traffic and choose your route wisely.
8. Check tire pressure
Tire condition and fuel efficiency are related, and that’s why it’s important for car owners to regularly check tire pressure. Your car consumes on average 2 to 4% more fuel for every 50 kPa (7psi) lost from normal pressure level.
9. Only carry the load you need
Last but certainly not least: your engine can benefit from carrying less weight. Pay attention to the car’s load, as fuel consumption increases by 3% when your load reaches 100 kg.
So, ready to exercise our tips? Take them on the road and enjoy the real fuel-efficient driving!
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