If you're worried about the cost of fuel amid the ongoing war in Iran — you're not alone.
The US-Israel war on Iran has led to the supply chain being squeezed. Iran's move to shut down the crucial Strait of Hormuz has effectively frozen 20% of the world’s oil trade. Three merchant ships were hit by projectiles in the strait this week.
Back home, fuel costs are a major expense involved in running a car, but they're also one that you can have more control over.
Here are some great ways to easily reduce your costs while driving.
Drive smooth
A key part of fuel economy was simply down to the way you drive your car, the Automobile Association (AA) said.
Being harsh on the accelerator and sharp on the brakes would noticeably use more fuel, so try to avoid accelerating hard from a stop, and instead let the car move off smoothly.
Don't brake hard for corners and accelerate out. Your passenger will likely thank you for this, too.
Take a load off
The heavier your vehicle is, the harder the engine has to work.
It's recommended to clear your car of heavy belongings after use, rather than use your car as a storage box - as this deters thieves as well as keeps the car more fuel efficient.
Roof racks, storage boxes and bike racks should be removed after use to reduce drag when you're not using them, and keep the boot clear aside from some basic tools.
Reduce drag and A/C
Driving with the windows down may be tempting during these muggy, humid months - but this can actually negatively impact fuel economy, particularly at higher speeds.
With the windows - or sunroof - down, it means the car has to work harder to get up to speed, therefore using more fuel in the process.
OK fine, should I crank the air conditioning, then?
The short answer to this is no. The AA recommends using A/C sparingly, as this can put a greater strain on the engine and subsequently use more fuel.
The same also aplies to other electrical appliances in the car, such as heated seats and demisters.
Check your tyre pressure
Underinflated tires significantly increase fuel consumption by causing higher rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder.
The AA said checking tyre pressure regularly is generally a good idea for the car anyway, and the recommended tyre pressures in can usually be found in at least one of three places – inside the fuel filler flap, in the front door shuts and also in the vehicle's handbook.
Once you’ve found this out, most petrol stations have air machines that can quickly top up the tyres to the correct levels.
Finally: embrace technology
The AA said many new vehicles are equipped with Auto Stop/Start systems, which can be useful when conditions permit to conserve that extra little bit of fuel.
"About a third of single car trips in NZ are said to be less than two kilometres in length and most vehicle users would drive an average of 30km a day," the organisation said.
"Because vehicles use up to 20% more fuel when they're cold, cut down on unnecessary driving and not only will you reduce your fuel usage, but because cold engines run rich, you’ll be able to contribute to better air quality at the same time."
Also, it helps to shop around and take note of the price at the stations in your area as some are cheaper than others.
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