Getting the most out of every tank of fuel

With inflation and the cost of living at a 30-year high, it’s no wonder many individuals and businesses are feeling the pinch right now. 

However, there are simple things we can do to ensure what we’re spending at the pump is getting us further and helping our bottom line as much as possible. 

In fact, before we even get behind the wheel, there are practical steps we can take to help get the most out of every tank of fuel, so we’ve put together a helpful guide to maximising your fuel efficiency for you and your fleet.

Plan ahead

Like with most things in life, planning ahead increases efficiency, and this applies to fuel consumption, too. So, take a look at your day and work out where you need to go and what you need to achieve with your car. Avoid multiple short trips, instead try combining them into one. Make a list of what you need and map out your plan for a smooth errand run. This not only saves gas, but also time.

Check your tyre pressure

Whether they are under or over-inflated, driving with incorrect tyre pressure causes a painfully inefficient drain on your fuel consumption. So head to your local Z or Caltex station regularly to ensure they have the right amount of air according to the manufacturer’s instructions, your load and the conditions you’ll be driving in.

No manual? No problem! Find out your vehicle’s required tyre pressure by typing your rego into our handy tyre pressure tool.

Having the correct type of tyre on your van, truck or car is another way to keep your fuel outgoings as efficient as possible. Again, check with your manufacturer to ensure you’ve got the right wheels for the job.

Gently does it

Putting the "pedal to the metal" burns fuel fast, so aim for gentle accelerator use. Aim to take about five seconds to accelerate your vehicle up to 20kph from a starting position. Not only is this safe practice, you’ll be saving gas and cash, too.

Take the highway 

Keep in mind that the shortest route isn't always the best when it comes to maximising your fuel efficiency. Routes with lots of starts and stops (think traffic lights, roundabouts, turns and congestion) can use more fuel than a longer, smoother journey. So opt for highways over city roads if you can. 

Reduce your aircon use

If you have to use the AC, try to save it for when you're on the motorway. Open the windows for a moment first to release all the hot air. This makes it easier for the AC to cool the cabin and car. And remember to park in shady spots as it’ll take less AC to cool the car than if it’s been heated up in the sun.

Wind up!

Keeping the windows closed, particularly on motorway trips, will reduce drag enormously and make your vehicle work harder (i.e. use more fuel) to maintain its speed. So, keep the windows up on the open road and you’ll reduce your fuel consumption at the same time.

Plan ahead

Like with most things in life, planning ahead increases efficiency, and this applies to fuel consumption, too. So, take a look at your day and work out where you need to go and what you need to achieve with your car. Avoid multiple short trips, instead try combining them into one. Make a list of what you need and map out your plan for a smooth errand run. This not only saves gas, but also time.