Unwanted Load
Unwanted items in your vehicle can add extra weight, increasing fuel consumption every time you drive. It's worth considering what you truly need to bring along. Roof boxes and bicycle racks also increase drag, raising fuel consumption significantly. Even an empty roof box can boost fuel usage by up to 20 percent.
Understanding Engine oil to save Fuel
Always follow your car manufacturer's recommendations, which are detailed in the vehicle's operating manual. Using specialized high-lubricity oils can positively impact fuel consumption. These fully synthetic oils have a lower viscosity, promoting better lubricant distribution within the engine, which aids in fuel savings. While they are slightly more expensive than traditional mineral oils, high-lubricity oils can reduce fuel usage by approximately 5 percent—and benefit the environment as well.
Refuelling
In recent years, petrol stations have introduced a variety of fuel options. So, which one is best for your vehicle? In many countries, fuels for petrol engines now include a higher ethanol content (such as E10, with 10 percent ethanol). When refueling, ensure your vehicle manufacturer approves the ethanol blend for your car. These fuels are generally slightly cheaper but can lead to a small increase in fuel consumption, often negating the cost savings. On the other hand, premium fuels for both diesel and petrol, which are becoming more widely available, offer a small advantage in fuel efficiency (in the low single-digit percentage range) but are often significantly more expensive.
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If you're uncertain about the right fuel for your vehicle, Rapid Performance is here to help and would be glad to assist you.
AC & Fuel Consumption
Air conditioning and other comfort features can have a noticeable impact on fuel consumption. Running the air conditioner increases the engine’s workload, leading to higher fuel usage—especially at lower speeds or in stop-and-go traffic, where it can raise fuel consumption by up to 10-20 percent. Other features like heated seats, defrosters, and even entertainment systems draw additional power, which slightly increases fuel demand as well. When driving at higher speeds, open windows can also create aerodynamic drag, so in such cases, using air conditioning might be more efficient than keeping windows down.
