Singapore Car Guide: Practise fuel efficiency

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Practise fuel efficiency
By: Goh Mei Yi
Published: November 11, 2006
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Last month, I came across an article in an American newspaper on the Internet about a study done in the USA which showed that if Americans lose weight (they are facing an obesity problem), they could potentially save close to $1 billion in petrol every year. The reason: more fuel is needed to transport a heavier vehicle – passengers included!

While we Singaporeans don’t have to start losing weight merely to save petrol (remember – maintain a healthy body-mass index!), that American weight tip reminds us that drivers should do their part in going green by making every litre of petrol go further. Until hybrid cars become a common sight in Singapore, you can reduce your petrol consumption with these pointers:

Plan your trips

Plan your route beforehand and use the shortest way possible.
Combine errands into one trip as several short trips taken from a cold start can consume as much as twice the fuel required for a longer multi-purpose trip that covers the same distance when the engine is warm.
Avoid peak-hour traffic. Spending less time stuck on the road also means consuming less fuel.
For shorter distances, consider walking or taking public transport.

Maintain your car

Maintain proper tyre pressure. The rolling pressure for under-inflated tyres is greater, and fuel consumption increases. Properly inflated tyres are safer and last longer too.
Check for proper wheel alignment. Improper alignment consumes more fuel and adds to wastage.
Keep your engine properly tuned.
Select the octane rating recommended for your car. If your car does not require premium petrol, more economical fuel will suffice.

Drive efficiently

Don’t keep the engine idle. Drive as soon as you start up, begin gently, and pick up speed slowly. This way, the engine warms up and lubricates faster. It’s friendlier to the environment too.
Don’t ride the brake and clutch pedals. Aggressive driving habits, such as speeding, rapid acceleration and braking results in fuel wastage. As fuel consumption increases dramatically over the first few hundred metres from a standing start, you should accelerate smoothly.
Switch off the air-conditioner whenever possible as keeping it running consumes more fuel.
Travel light by clearing your boot of unnecessary weight. Additional weight and vehicle add-ons have a negative effect on aerodynamics, causing engines to work harder.
Keep the petrol tank at least half-full. More evaporation occurs if you only fill up when the petrol tank is near empty.

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