The price of gasoline and diesel represents a considerable expense for users, who look for gas stations where they can refuel cheaper. But apart from this, as highlighted by the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT), between 30 and 50% of fuel costs depend on the owner’s driving style.
“One of the best assets to reduce the consumption of our vehicle, regardless of the type of engine, is efficient driving,” the DGT points out. For this reason, they compile a series of recommendations with which it is possible to save fuel and, in the process, reduce emissions and extend the useful life of the car.
Fuel consumption is significantly reduced by driving in the highest possible gear. Current engines allow driving in high gears at very low revolutions, with the engine relieved and with minimal consumption. For this reason, the DGT recommends not speeding up low gears, except when starting off on steep slopes. On the other hand, in the city they urge you to turn off the engine when stopping if the car does not have a ‘start/stop’ system.
It is important to drive at a moderate and constant speed, since ups and downs and constant changes of pace increase fuel consumption. Likewise, it is advisable to maintain a safe distance, as this will allow us to circulate at a constant speed without paying too much attention to the brakes.
Other guidelines are to accelerate progressively at traffic lights and stop accelerating if we see a vehicle in front that is moving more slowly, to reach it with inertia at a stop without spending fuel.
The DGT advises against having the air conditioning connected when it is not necessary, as this represents an increase in consumption between 10 and 20%. In addition, you have to keep the windows closed on the road, otherwise the aerodynamics of the vehicle are broken and this consumes more.
Do not abuse carrying too much luggage is another recommendation from the DGT. If the trunk is too small, it is best to use a trunk or storage box with a closed roof and aerodynamic shapes instead of putting the packages on a roof rack as this, in addition to being dangerous, will increase consumption.
Finally, before embarking on a trip, it is advisable to consult the DGT website to find information about any incident, such as traffic jams, roadworks, inclement weather or alternative routes. Also let yourself be guided by a navigator on the best route when we do not know the destination. With both issues we will avoid wasting fuel in traffic jams and changes of direction, for example, due to getting lost or finding a blocked road that we did not foresee and will make us take a further detour.
