The rise in fuel prices has led to increased interest in ways of saving money on motoring. Searches for “fuel prices near me” have increased by 236% over the past year, while searches for “how to save money on fuel” have risen by 110% over the last three months.
Driving Techniques That Can Help Reduce Fuel Use
Paul Johnson, Forecourt Manager at Vertu Nissan Widnes, has shared four methods aimed at helping motorists use less fuel during everyday journeys. One recommendation is to release the accelerator earlier and allow the engine to slow the vehicle while remaining in gear. In busy traffic, drivers who accelerate towards the vehicle ahead before braking sharply can waste more fuel. According to government eco-driving guidance, aggressive acceleration and braking can increase fuel consumption by 10–40% during stop-start driving.
Modern fuel-injected engines can stop supplying fuel when the driver lifts off the accelerator while the car remains in gear. By keeping a wider distance from other vehicles and anticipating changes in traffic, motorists can reduce unnecessary braking and maintain movement for longer periods.
Drivers are also being advised to maintain a speed of 60mph when road conditions allow. Travelling at higher speeds increases aerodynamic drag, requiring the engine to work harder. According to the Climate Change Committee, driving at 70mph uses around 15% more fuel than travelling at 60mph.
Using cruise control on open and level roads can help maintain a steady speed. The difference in travel time is limited, with a 20-mile journey taking around two additional minutes when driven at 60mph instead of 70mph.
Rising Fuel Costs Linked to Wider Pressures
The increase in petrol and diesel prices has contributed to pressure on the UK’s inflation rate, which reached 3.1%. Filling a typical family petrol car now costs around £94, representing a rise of £5 since the start of September.
Several factors have been linked to the higher prices. According to the Mirror, ongoing conflict in the Middle East has affected global oil markets, with disrupted shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz and damage to oil refineries contributing to Brent crude oil prices moving above $106 a barrel.
Campaign groups such as FairFuelUK have also highlighted concerns about retailer profit margins, saying these have added to the pressure experienced by motorists at fuel stations.
The RAC has warned that fuel prices may continue rising while crude oil prices remain above $100 a barrel. Drivers are therefore looking for ways to manage costs, including comparing local fuel prices through services connected to the UK Government Fuel Finder scheme.
Other simple measures include avoiding unnecessary idling and checking tyre pressures regularly. The Highway Code’s Rule 123 states that motorists must not leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while stationary on a public road. Incorrect tyre pressures can increase rolling resistance, meaning the engine needs to use more fuel. With fuel prices remaining a concern for many drivers, small changes in driving behaviour are being presented as practical ways to reduce fuel waste during everyday journeys.
