The easy way to cut fuel costs this holiday period

19 December 2006

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) has some easy ways for travellers to cut up to 20% off their fuel costs this holiday period.

“This is a time of year when many kiwi households are packing up the car and heading off on holiday to travel more than they usually do. Drivers can save money on their fuel bill by making simple changes to the way they drive”, says Angus Davidson Acting Chief Executive of EECA.

So how much can travellers save? For a family taking a trip of 1500kms over the holiday period the fuel cost could be around $261*. If they take on board the tips below and achieve a 20% saving that would equate to around $43 that they would save on the fuel cost for the trip.

To achieve this sort of saving EECA suggests the following driving tips:

Reduce your speed - drivers who travel at the speed limit are not only driving more safely but they are saving a significant amount on fuel. For example, by travelling at only 10km over the open road speed limit you will increase your fuel usage by around 13%.

Drive smoothly – make sure you accelerate gradually. Change gear early - around 2000 to 2500 RPM. If you drive an automatic choose ‘economy’ gear switching as this will keep the engine speed down.

Look ahead – check what’s happening, maintain a safe following distance and you’ll keep at a more constant speed. This uses less fuel than accelerating and braking all the time.

Look after your car – keeping your tyres at the right pressure saves fuel.

Only use air conditioning when absolutely necessary as it uses up to 10% more fuel. Other features such as the rear window demister also make an impact, so switch them off once they have done their job.

Reduce idling time – if you are going to be stationary for periods of time, switch your engine off.

‘A reduction in fuel consumption is great for the driver’s wallet, and is also good for the environment, as less greenhouse gases are produced’ says Mr Davidson.

To check out the fuel efficiency of your car, go to www.fuelsaver.govt.nz.  And whilst on the web take a look at how the drivers in the AA EnergyWise Rally achieved savings of up to 30% on the official fuel economy of their vehicles at www.aaenergywiserally.co.nz.

 *Assumes a larger family vehicle consuming 10 litres per 100kms and a fuel cost of $1.45 per litre. Assumes a packed car with roof racks and air conditioning on will add around 20% to usual fuel economy performance.

For further information contact Miriam Pearce, EECA 04 495 8274 or 027 676 8493