A shortage of fuel supplies in some areas and a sharp increase in fuel prices have left many Australians feeling anxious about their household budgets. With the cost of filling up the tank rising, it’s no wonder people are looking for ways to save money while still getting around.
The government has reassured the public that Australia’s fuel supply is secure, and experts suggest there are practical steps drivers can take to improve fuel efficiency and make travel more sustainable.
How to Improve Fuel Efficiency
The Royal Automobile Club of Queensland (RACQ) recommends keeping track of fuel usage. Andrew Kirk, RACQ’s principal technical researcher, suggests resetting your odometer when you fill up and again when you refuel. This allows you to calculate how many kilometers you get per liter of fuel, helping you monitor savings over time.
Aggressive acceleration and hard braking cause engines to work harder, leading to higher fuel consumption. Peter Natrass from the Royal Automobile Association of South Australia (RAA) told ABC Radio Adelaide that adopting safer driving habits can reduce fuel use by up to 30%.
Using cruise control on open roads can save up to five percent in fuel, according to data from Monash University’s Accident Research Centre. Removing roof racks improves aerodynamics and can save 15% in fuel. Lightening the load in your car by removing unnecessary items also helps.
When using air conditioning, choose a moderate or low temperature, set the fan to maximum speed, and use the recirculation button. This keeps the cabin cool without trying to cool outside air. Driving with windows down at speeds under 80 km/h can also save fuel without creating drag.
Stay on Top of Car Maintenance
Proper car maintenance plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency. Misaligned wheels and under-inflated tyres can make a vehicle work harder. Mr Kirk advises checking tyre pressure once a week and inflating them up to four to six PSI above the manufacturer’s recommended level. This can lead to fuel savings of up to 10%.
Some vehicles have an “eco mode” setting that changes the way the transmission works, reducing engine revs and saving fuel. In certain cars, using higher-grade petrol may also be beneficial.
Changing Our Travel Behaviours
Matthew Burke, a former urban transport researcher based in Brisbane, suggests that Australians can significantly reduce car use with small lifestyle changes. He recommends:
- Carpooling with neighbours to work or school
- Encouraging children to ride bikes to school if safe
- Using car sharing apps through schools
- Working from home one day a week
- Using low-powered, pedal-assisted e-bikes for shorter trips
- Replacing one weekly journey with public transport
Dr Burke notes that many city dwellers already have access to public transport options that can replace one or two journeys a week. These changes don’t require major lifestyle overhauls or expensive purchases like electric cars.
By making these adjustments, drivers can not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Whether through better driving habits, regular maintenance, or rethinking daily travel routines, there are plenty of ways to keep costs down and reduce environmental impact.
