Driving to reduce fuel use and emissions
Use these tips to drive more efficiently and reduce the amount of fuel you use and the pollution it emits.
- Drive smoothly, avoiding fast acceleration and sharp braking.
- Avoid over-revving by changing up gears.
- Reduce short trips (you use 20% more fuel when your engine is cold).
- Reduce your speed (driving over the speed limit can increase fuel consumption by 10%)
- Don't leave your vehicle idling for long periods.
- Avoid carrying unnecessary loads.
- Use your air conditioner wisely (using your air conditioner can increase fuel use by 10%).
- Choose a vehicle that's the right size for your needs.
- Consider using biofuels where possible.
How does your vehicle rate?
Visit the Fuelsaver website to find out how much you spend on fuel, for more information on bio fuels, and how much you can save.
Interested in using biofuels?
Learn more about biofuels (PDF, 168 KB).
Keeping your vehicle well maintained
Basic maintenance will cut your vehicle's fuel use as well as reduce the pollutants it produces.
Things you can do:
- Make sure your vehicle is well-tuned.
- Keep lights and brakes in good working order and keep tyres correctly inflated. (See more about tyre inflation.)
- Consider removing roof racks and poorly placed spoilers - these increase air resistance and, therefore, fuel consumption.
Also, make sure you keep your vehicle's safety features well maintained, as they may not be included in regular vehicle checks.
Choosing a more fuel-efficient vehicle
Choosing a more fuel-efficient vehicle will help you save money and reduce your CO2 emissions. See which vehicles rate better on the Rightcar website.
Find out more about safety and other features to look for when making your next vehicle purchase.
Choosing other ways to travel
Combining driving with other forms of transport during one trip is another way to reduce your fuel use. And using other forms of transport can be a smart way to avoid congestion.
Consider:
- sharing rides or carpooling
- taking public transport
- walking or cycling
One option is to use your car some days and other forms of transport on others.
