The price of fuel has increased by R1.21 for petrol and R1.48 for diesel, which brings the overall fuel price to just under R20 per litre.
This is one of the most significant petrol price increases South Africans have faced in some time and the reality is that motorists need to make a concerted effort to reduce their fuel consumption. As an individual, it is bound to affect your pocket and as a company, it means increases in the price of goods and services which of course trickle down to the consumer.
Consequently, the importance of keeping fuel consumption in mind whenever you drive is essential. Here are 10 fuel-saving tips which may come in handy, particularly as we approach the holiday season.
1. Ensure your vehicle’s maintenance is up-to-date. Failing to replace certain parts in your car can considerably affect its fuel consumption negatively.
2. Maintain an adequate following distance and watch 12 seconds ahead as this gives you adequate time to react to changing traffic conditions. By so doing, you avoid having to come to a complete stop.
3. Keep your revs between 2 500 rpm and 3 500 rpm as this can reduce your petrol consumption by up to 20%. For diesel vehicles, you can keep the rpm as low as 2 000.
4. Travel at a reduced speed, where possible, as this has proved to also play a role in reducing fuel consumption.
5. Avoid costly behaviours behind the wheel such as driving aggressively.
6. Use your aircon judiciously and ensure that your windows are closed when the aircon is operational. Open windows not only add to increased wind resistance but to increased fuel consumption as well.
7. Plan your routes. Plenty of petrol can be wasted by not making your route as efficient as possible.
8. Avoid driving with unnecessary items in your car that add to the weight of the vehicle.
9. Avoid idling for longer than 30 seconds.
10. Ensure tyres are properly inflated. Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption.
While it is difficult to accurately predict the outcome, the immediate future does not look good. Even if we are fortunate enough to see a decrease, the fuel price will remain relatively high. By following these tips you may be able to reduce the effect of increased fuel prices on you or your business.
Extract from MasterDrive Press Release
