Motorists across the UK are being urged to follow the '45mph rule' this week as the country prepares for its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to reach 30C and above. The Met Office has forecast an extended period of hot and dry conditions, with southern England seeing lows of 30C early in the week and some areas potentially hitting 34-35C later on.
Heatwave Details and Expert Advice
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Steven Keates stated: "Parts of the UK are entering heatwave conditions: the third heatwave in the UK so far this year. However, unlike the May and June heatwaves, we are not expecting this heatwave to be record-breaking." The weather is expected to be less muggy than June's heatwave, with lower maximum temperatures and fewer exceptionally balmy nights.
The sweltering conditions mean people need to take precautionary steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, such as wearing suncream, staying hydrated, and remaining in shaded spots. For motorists, extra guidelines apply to keep cool and conserve fuel.
The 45mph Air-Con Rule
Mike Fazal, motoring expert and CEO of Leasing.com, suggests drivers can save fuel with the '45mph air-con rule' this summer. He explains: "A simple rule drivers can follow is the 45mph rule. Below that speed, it's usually more fuel efficient to open your windows and let air flow through the cabin. Once travelling faster than around 45mph, especially on dual carriageways or motorways, open windows create aerodynamic drag that makes the engine work harder. At that point, using the air conditioning can actually become the more fuel-efficient choice." Research indicates air conditioning can boost fuel consumption by roughly 10%, while driving with windows down at higher speeds can raise fuel usage by as much as 20%.
Footwear Warning for Drivers
Another crucial factor for summer driving is footwear. Warm weather often sees motorists switching to flip-flops, clogs, or Crocs, but not all summer footwear is appropriate for driving. Anything that slides off or makes it harder to sense pedals could compromise vehicle control. Fazal says: "Drivers need to be in full control of their vehicle at all times. If your footwear slips, becomes caught or makes it harder to operate the pedals safely, it could contribute to a careless driving offence. While flip-flops and Crocs might be comfortable in hot weather, they're not the best choice behind the wheel. Over summer try keeping a pair of trainers in the car and changing into them before setting off."
Those found guilty of careless driving offences face between three and six penalty points alongside fines reaching £5,000, while more serious incidents could lead to five to nine penalty points, a driving ban, and in worst cases, unlimited fines.
