Minimizing steering inputs are another way to save fuel. Anytime you have to turn a corner, the front tires have to operate at a slip angle to make the vehicle turn. The sharper the slip angle, the more drag on the vehicle. By keeping steering inputs to a minimum and maintaining a constant radius around a corner, you are reducing the drag and helping fuel economy.
While tire pressures are already preset during our fuel economy runs, you should check yours frequently. One tire low on pressure could cost you a mile per gallon (or increase consumption by a third of a litre per 100 km) or more!
Other fuel-saving techniques include turning off all unnecessary electrical features. Heater motors, seat heaters, radios and other electrical options consume power, which has to be supplied by the vehicle’s charging system. The engine drives the alternator to provide this power, so reducing electrical consumption will reduce the load on the engine. Most manufacturers are currently trying to do this on new vehicles with sophisticated charging system controls, but you can do it on any vehicle.
Turning off the air conditioning around town also helps. At low speeds, an open window will provide fresh air. On the highway, you can get better economy with the windows closed, so turn on the A/C then if it is required. You might be able to get by with just turning on the fan rather than the A/C.
Slowing down on the highway will save a lot of fuel. Reducing speeds from 110 km/h to 100 km/h can save you 20 per cent in some vehicles. Driving at 90 km/h will save even more!
Idle stop is a feature we find now on some vehicles and will see much more frequently in the future. Idle stop turns off the engine if the vehicle is stopped and power isn’t needed. For stop-and-go city driving, this could increase fuel economy as much as 15 per cent, and you can do this manually even if the feature isn’t on your vehicle. Reduce idling time to save fuel.
There are many ways to save fuel. It doesn’t matter what you drive. Careful attention to driving techniques can save you big money at the gas pumps.
