Why Driving Style Matters
Fuel prices rise and fall, but one thing stays constant; the way you drive makes a big difference to how much you spend. Smooth, thoughtful driving isn’t just better for your wallet, it’s easier on your car and the environment too. Even small changes in acceleration, braking, and gear use can add up to big savings over time.
Whether you’re commuting, doing the school run, or heading out on long journeys, economical driving is about efficiency, not crawling along at 40 mph with the heater off. It’s common sense with a bit of mechanical sympathy thrown in.
1. Keep It Smooth
Harsh acceleration and sharp braking waste fuel. Aim to drive as if there’s an egg between your foot and the pedal; firm enough to move, gentle enough not to crack it. Anticipate traffic flow so you can ease off early rather than slam on the brakes. Smoothness helps your passengers, your tyres, and your tank.
Modern cars are designed to be driven with light throttle inputs. If you find yourself constantly speeding up and slowing down, you’re probably burning more fuel than you realise.
2. Use Higher Gears Sooner
Engines are most efficient at lower revs. Change up early; around 2,000 rpm for petrol cars and 1,800 for diesels; without labouring the engine. Staying in a lower gear longer than necessary just burns extra fuel. On modern automatics, use eco mode where available, as it’s programmed to shift earlier and maintain steady revs.
3. Keep to a Steady Speed
Constant speed equals consistent fuel use. Use cruise control on motorways where it’s safe, but turn it off on hills so you don’t waste fuel trying to maintain speed uphill. The best results come from a steady right foot rather than constant throttle changes.
Remember, aerodynamic drag increases rapidly over 60 mph. Driving at 70 mph uses roughly 15–20% more fuel than cruising at 60 mph, according to tests by the AA.
4. Reduce Weight and Drag
Every extra kilogram costs fuel to move. Clear out unnecessary clutter from the boot; those golf clubs, tools, or shopping bags you’ve been carting around. Roof boxes and bike racks create wind resistance even when empty, so remove them when not in use. Keep windows closed at higher speeds too; the aerodynamic drag can be surprisingly strong.
It’s a simple equation: less drag, less fuel, less cost.
5. Check Tyres and Maintenance
Under-inflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. Check pressures regularly; ideally once a month; and adjust to the manufacturer’s recommendation. Balanced tyres and clean air filters also make a difference, as do fresh spark plugs and properly tuned engines.
A well-maintained car runs more efficiently, and regular servicing can quickly pay for itself in fuel savings alone.
6. Plan Your Journeys
Combine errands into one round trip rather than several short ones. Cold starts use more fuel because engines need time to reach optimum temperature. Fewer, longer trips are more efficient than multiple stop-start journeys.
Check traffic and weather before setting out; sitting idling in jams or battling heavy rain both hurt fuel economy. Apps like Google Maps or Waze can help find smoother routes that save time and petrol.
7. Don’t Idle Unnecessarily
If you’re stopped for more than a minute, switch off the engine. Idling still burns fuel and produces emissions. Many modern cars have automatic stop-start systems that do this for you; leave them turned on. Over a year of daily commutes, the savings can be surprisingly large.
8. Use Your Car’s Features Wisely
Air conditioning, heated seats, and demisters all put extra load on your engine. Use them when needed, but turn them off once the cabin’s comfortable. Likewise, keep windows up on faster roads; it’s better to use the vents at 50 mph than open windows at 70 mph.
9. Think Ahead, Drive Calmly
Most drivers overreact to what’s immediately in front of them instead of reading the road further ahead. Look 200 yards up the road, anticipate stops, and adjust your speed gradually. You’ll not only save fuel but also drive more safely and arrive more relaxed.
It’s a simple mindset shift: you’re not racing the car in front; you’re working with the flow of traffic.
Useful UK Resources
Driving economically doesn’t mean driving slowly; it means driving smart. A smoother style, a little planning, and regular maintenance go a long way towards cheaper, cleaner motoring. Know someone who fills up every week? Share this page; they might thank you at their next fuel stop.