Ways to save on petrol

Plan ahead

You might be used to travelling wherever the wind takes you, but it pays to plan. Vehicles stuck in traffic use more fuel. So whether you’re heading to work or gearing up for a holiday, try to plan your route ahead of time.

Apps like Google Maps or Waze can do all the hard work for you, and keep you updated on traffic in real-time. Of course, you’ll know when rush hour is at its worst, or when long weekend holidaymakers are likely to set off. So prepare to leave a little earlier, or later, to avoid hitting the traffic.

Think ahead: plan your errands around town and try to get everything in one big trip as opposed to multiple ones. Cold engines use 20% more fuel¹, so it pays to get everything in one go.

Reduce excess weight

What’s hanging out in the back of the car? Whether it’s an old bag of clothes you’ve been meaning to donate or the surfboard on your roof, excess weight slows you down.

In fact, just an extra 45kg in your boot can reduce your fuel efficiency by 1%². And things like empty roof racks increase drag and reduce your fuel efficiency by as much as 25% when you’re driving on the motorway². So clear out your car and remember to remove those roof racks when they’re not in use.

Watch your air con usage

Did you know that blasting the air conditioning can use up to 10%¹ of your fuel? So use it wisely and keep cool with the windows down when you’re cruising around town. Then roll up and switch on the AC when you pick up the pace on the motorway.

Maintain a constant speed

You might think driving faster will get you there sooner and save you gas, but that’s not the case. Driving over the speed limit and sharp braking can use up to 10%¹ more fuel. So it’s best to stick to the speed limit to help your fuel go further.

Test a hybrid

Looking for a new car? Why not look at a hybrid that works using both electric and fuel to get around? Hybrid cars are so popular because they use regenerative braking to recharge their battery, making them more fuel efficient³.

Plus, you can apply for the Clean Car rebate through Waka Kotahi NZTA⁴. This discount applies to new and used zero or low-emission vehicles when they’re registered for the first time. You can save anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 for your car. Take a look at what to consider when buying an EV or Hybrid to find out more.

The ultimate fuel-saving tip? Leave the car at home. Jump on public transport, break out your bike or lace up your walking shoes. These are the most eco-friendly and wallet-friendly options.

So what small things will you change to make your fuel go further?

Sources

¹Fuel efficient driving

²Behaviour techniques

³What is a hybrid car and how do they work?

⁴Clean car discount