Summer Driving Tips to Improve Fuel Efficiency

Summer opportunities to explore Ontario abound and many of us enjoy hopping in our car and driving to the many points of interest that are all around us. The choices you make as a driver can have a major impact on fuel consumption. Making a conscious choice to use fuel-efficient driving techniques will help at the gas pump.

Here are a few tips to help you drive with fuel efficiency in mind:

• Drive smarter and reduce your fuel consumption by up to 25%!
  • Accelerate gently. You can use less fuel by easing onto the accelerator pedal gently.
  • Keep a steady speed. Tests indicate driving at inconsistent speeds can increase fuel use. Where conditions permit, consider using cruise control when driving on the highway.
  • Check ahead! Is the traffic slowing down? Taking your foot off the accelerator, instead of using your brakes when it is time to slow down will conserve fuel.
  • Use speed efficiently. Travelling between 50 and 80 km per hour is the most fuel-efficient for many types of vehicles. The faster you drive the more fuel you will use!

What else can you do to use less fuel?

• Reduce weight. For every 25 kilograms of weight, fuel consumption increases about 1%.
• Aerodynamics: Open windows at highway speeds can make your car much less aerodynamic and result in higher fuel use. Removing bike racks or cargo boxes when not in use can save fuel consumption by up to 20%. 
• Plan your route. Avoid road construction and other trouble spots. Using four-lane highways when you can and avoiding roads that cut through major cities will save you time and fuel.

What can we do to keep cool while using less fuel?

• Air-conditioning systems can increase fuel consumption by up to 20%!
  • Let the air flow. Consider whether you really need to use the air conditioner. Just as you would at home, adjust your thermostat settings and aim for comfortable, not cold. Use the flow-through ventilation when you are on the highway, and open your windows and sunroof while driving in the city.
  • Hit the re-circulation button. Use the “re-circulating” function of your a/c system. This uses less energy because you are cooling only the air already in your vehicle, not bringing in warmer outside air to be cooled.
  • Find a little shade. Your vehicle will need less cooling from the air conditioner at start-up if it is parked in the shade. If you cannot find a shaded area, use window shades to reduce the heat when your vehicle is parked. Also, do not use the a/c when you first start your vehicle. Instead, open the windows for the first few minutes and allow the hot air to escape.

Knowing how to save on fuel while sightseeing from the comfort of your own car will leave more money in your pocket to enjoy the many adventures Ontario has to offer.

Happy travels!

Source: Natural Resources Canada