British motorists have been cautioned that four common driving mistakes could be significantly harming their fuel economy. As the cost of petrol and diesel climbs once again — to such an extent that the RAC has predicted the latter could surpass its all-time price record this month — there is growing speculation that fuel rationing may be introduced.
With the escalating cost of driving compounding the cost of living crisis, a growing number of motorists will be seeking ways to reduce their fuel bills and make their tanks stretch further. Fortunately, there are several steps drivers can both take and avoid while behind the wheel to extend the distance between fill-ups.
What are the four errors?
Speaking to us, GoCompare's Car Insurance's Tom Banks emphasised the importance of smooth driving and ensuring vehicles are kept in good working order. He explained: "The easiest way for drivers to make their fuel go further is to drive smoothly.
"Harsh acceleration, late braking and unnecessary speed changes all use more fuel, so looking further ahead, easing off the accelerator earlier and maintaining a steady speed can make a real difference over time. It sounds simple, but your right foot has a big impact on how much you spend at the pumps."
Tom's views have been echoed by other motoring specialists, including Young Driver Expert at Veygo by Admiral, Ian Edwards, who added: "Avoid leaving the engine idling unnecessarily and combine shorter journeys where possible, as engines tend to be less efficient before they've warmed up.
"Small changes might not feel significant on a single journey, but over time they can make a noticeable difference to how often you need to fill up."
What can drivers actively do to improve their fuel economy?
On this point, Tom outlined three measures drivers could take to improve their average MPG (Miles Per Gallon), explaining: "Keeping tyres correctly inflated, removing unnecessary weight from the boot and taking off an unused roof box or rack can all help reduce the amount of fuel your car needs."
Tom's remarks come at a time when, according to the RAC's Fuel Watch, diesel stands at 199.18p per litre and petrol at 174.13p per litre, though prices will differ between forecourts. Alongside providing regular updates on fuel prices, the RAC's guidance on economical driving mirrors that of Tom's, placing particular emphasis on the importance of keeping one's vehicle properly maintained.
What has the RAC said?
The RAC said: "Regular maintenance and servicing improves the efficiency of your vehicle, and therefore can improve your fuel consumption. Getting your car serviced regularly is advised.
"It's particularly important to check your tyre pressures and make sure they are inflated correctly, as indicated in your owner's manual, as underinflated and overinflated tyres both adversely affect fuel economy."
However, keeping your vehicle well-maintained will not shield you from potential fuel rationing. According to the National Emergency Plan for Fuel: "The majority of potential fuel supply disruptions can be addressed by measures to help industry maintain fuel supply; these would be deployed by DESNZ in co-ordination with industry and other government departments.
"However, the government does have emergency powers under the Energy Act 1976, which it can use to control supply and demand of petroleum products. It should be noted that use of these emergency powers is reserved for the most severe of disruptions.
"Only when an incident has the potential to cause significant and widespread disruption to oil supply will government consider activating measures within the NEP-F."
Despite growing concerns surrounding fuel rationing, a spokesperson for DESNZ was keen to emphasise that the UK is nowhere near requiring such measures, telling the Express: "We have a diverse and resilient supply. We continue to engage with our international partners and the UK fuel industry."
