Economical Driving

There are a number of factors which affect fuel economy and with some modifications to the way that you drive, you can drive more economically.

Fuel Economy Factors

• Driving style.
• Driving conditions.
• Caravan or trailer size, shape and weight.
• Engine type, size and state of tune.
• Tyre rolling resistance which depends on:
  • tyre size,
  • tyre pressure,
  • load being carried.
• Dragging brakes on caravan.

Economy Tips

• Depress accelerator smoothly and gradually, not suddenly.
• Judge traffic flow to reduce the need to slow down.
• Do not drive too close to the other vehicle in front.
• Release accelerator as soon as the need to slow down becomes apparent.
• Increase vehicle speed on the approach to a hill (if safe to do so).
• When going up a hill, change down gear early to maintain road and engine speed.
• Reduce speed if there are strong head winds.
• Unless towing a trailer that is no wider or higher than the towing vehicle (ie there is no increase in wind resistance) it is often better not to use 5th gear with a manual transmission or 4th gear with an automatic transmission (5th if it is a 5-speed automatic). However this also depends on the total load as well as the type and size of engine.
• If the vehicle is fitted with a trip computer, use the “instant fuel consumption” readout as a guide to the most appropriate gear and/or speed.
• Cruise control is beneficial on flat roads when steady speeds can be maintained and when weather conditions are favourable (ie no head winds).

Reference Source

The above information was provided as part of the Towsafe Driving course.