Diesel prices have reached an all-time high, with forecourts charging an average of 199.18p per litre in the UK, according to the RAC's latest petrol price checker. The cost of filling up a diesel car has never been more expensive.
Bowl of water trick
Motoring experts at ChooseMyCar.com have urged drivers to consider a few unusual fuel-saving tips to keep petrol costs as low as possible. One top tip shared for years by driving experts is to set a bowl of water in the passenger seat of your car. While it won't directly change your fuel economy, it can help you save on petrol and diesel.
The experts said: "Keeping an open bowl of water on your passenger seat is a great deterrent for unnecessary acceleration and braking."
"It sounds a bit strange, but it is a simple and brilliant reminder to drive gently. If you hit the accelerator too hard, you'll see water pour out the sides. Likewise, if you're driving too fast and braking hard you'll notice water on the seat. The best bowls to use for this are small cereal bowls, with water about an inch from the top."
Other fuel-saving tips
Other experts' tips include using your garage as an actual garage. By keeping your car warm in a garage, you will keep it at a better temperature for fuel economy. This will reduce your fuel consumption by using less air conditioning to heat or cool your car, which is especially useful during cold December weather.
Emptying your car out can also help, as excess weight in your car can be a real fuel burner. It's good practice to empty your car out daily, especially if you have particularly heavy items in there.
Consider cycling or walking to your destination. Not only will you save money on fuel, you can probably cancel your gym membership too. As a quick example, if your journey to work is five miles, you would save £416 per year and boost your steps by 10,000 a day.
