Nigerians have continued to groan over the increase in fuel price from N189 per litre to N617 within two months of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Most Nigerians are not finding the situation easy as the hike in fuel price has adversely affected the cost of other commodities in the market.
While talks about palliatives to cushion the effect of the petrol subsidy removal continue to hit the brick wall, most motorists are seeking alternative ways to reduce the fuel consumption of their vehicles.
Politics Nigeria has compiled 8 simple ways motorists and car owners can devise to reduce fuel consumption of there car.
1. Drive efficiently
If you drive an automatic car, use cruise control to maintain a steady speed. For manual cars, shift to higher gears when appropriate. Avoid rapid acceleration from a complete stop or when climbing hills, as this significantly increases fuel consumption.
2. Maintain correct tyre pressure
Ensure that your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated in accordance with the recommended specifications. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, causing more friction and requiring more fuel to overcome. A decrease of 10psi in tyre pressure can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 10 per cent.
3. Minimize load in the trunk
Except for the emergency spare tyre, carry only essential items in your car’s trunk. Every additional 50kg of weight increases fuel consumption by two per cent
4. Plan your route and use technology
Choose routes that minimise stop-and-go traffic, as constant acceleration and braking consume more fuel. Whenever possible, plan your trips during off-peak hours to avoid traffic congestion. Utilise navigation apps like Google Maps to find the most efficient routes.
5. Maintain optimal speed
When driving on the highway, excessive speed increases wind resistance and fuel consumption. Driving at 100km/h burns about 15 per cent more fuel compared to a speed of 90km/h. However, driving below 50km/h may require the car to operate in a lower gear, leading to increased fuel consumption. The most fuel-efficient range is typically between 50km/h and 90km/h on the highway.
6. Avoid harsh braking
Frequent and aggressive braking followed by acceleration increases fuel consumption. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead to allow for smooth deceleration and minimise the need for sudden braking.
7. Ensure fuel cap is tightened
Make sure the fuel tank cap is properly secured to prevent fuel vapour evaporation, which can result in fuel loss. If you anticipate being stationary for more than three minutes, turn off your engine. Idling consumes fuel unnecessarily, even when the vehicle is not in motion.
8. Regular vehicle maintenance
Regular servicing of your car helps maintain optimal engine fuel efficiency. Using the correct lubricants prevents sludge formation and corrosion, ensuring smooth movement of engine parts, reducing friction, and maximising engine power. This contributes to improved fuel efficiency.
By following these tips, you can effectively reduce your fuel consumption, save money, and contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective driving experience.
