An expert driving instructor has shared five simple tips to save fuel – and they’re all free. Annie Winterburn said the tricks can really benefit your wallet
When it comes to driving, countless motorists are keen to avoid squandering petrol and diesel, particularly as fuel prices are constantly changing. This is precisely why a driving instructor’s advice will prove invaluable, as Annie Winterburn recently revealed five essential rules every driver should follow to prevent wasting car fuel.
Regarding motoring matters, expert guidance is worth heeding, as it can result in saving both time and money. Annie utilises her platform to enhance people’s understanding of driving – and, if her recommendations can help you preserve some cash in the process, even better!
Annie explained you genuinely need to understand these facts when you’re a learner driver, as the information is required for your theory test. Beyond this however, the insider expertise can also assist you in conserving fuel.
She explained: “Tip number one, you’ll use more fuel – the most fuel – when you’re accelerating, so always try to use the gas pedal smoothly. Accelerating and braking gently and smoothly will help you to save fuel.
“Tip number two, you’ll use more fuel if your tyres are underinflated, so make sure your tyres have the correct amount of air in them. Tip number three, you’ll use more fuel if your vehicle is heavy, so don’t carry unnecessary weight.
“Don’t leave a roof rack on that you’re not using. Take stuff out of your boot if you don’t need it there.
“Tip number four, you’ll use more fuel if you drive along in a low gear or if you change gears lots. Missing out gears helps you to save fuel. For example, going from third to fifth gear.”
Annie continued: “And finally, tip number five, you’ll use 15% more fuel when you drive at 70mph compared to driving at 50mph. I hope that helps.”
The clip has racked up thousands of views since being posted, with viewers rushing to praise the instructor. Annie was hailed as a “wonderful” teacher by impressed watchers.
One viewer commented: “Can confirm as a mechanic, listen to these tips.” Another chimed in with: “Good advice on reducing fuel consumption. These habits are good for your pocket and the environment – a win for all.”
A third gushed: “Wow – what an explanation. I passed my theory test, but I am still watching your videos. Thank you Annie.”
For motorists baffled by one particular tip, travelling at 70mph burns considerably more petrol than cruising at 50mph, with higher speeds potentially increasing fuel consumption by 15% to 30% across the same journey.
Typically, faster speeds demand greater engine power to combat heightened aerodynamic resistance, meaning more fuel gets consumed to sustain velocity. Those seeking additional guidance can turn to the Royal Automobile Club (RAC), which provides eight practical tips for safe driving whilst cutting fuel usage.
Many of their recommendations echo Annie’s essential advice. The website advises: “It’s particularly important to make sure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure as indicated in your owner’s manual as underinflated and overinflated tyres both adversely affect fuel economy. Tyre pressures will vary depending on the load you are carrying: if you have four passengers and luggage then you will need your tyres inflated to the maximum recommended pressures.
“Excessive speed is the biggest fuel-guzzling factor so having a light right foot and ensuring all acceleration is gentle is very important to fuel-efficient driving. Of course you will always have to accelerate a number of times on a journey, but that doesn’t mean you have to pull away like you’re on the starting line at Silverstone!
“Probably the biggest secret to achieving high mpg is driving in the highest possible gear for your vehicle while keeping within the speed limit. The best advice in urban areas is to change up through the gears as quickly as you can with the lowest revs possible, probably at around 2000rpm. Remember: the faster an engine spins, the more fuel it uses.”