With gas prices soaring into the $4.00 range, everyone wants to save a little money at the pump. And for those of us with fleets to manage, it’s not always possible to purchase a hybrid vehicle. By implementing some of the tips below, you can increase fuel efficiency for your cars and your fleets.
Keep your vehicles well maintaned
A vehicle in poor running condition will use more gas than one that has been tuned up. According to Advance Auto Parts, a dirty air filter can reduce gas mileage up to 20%. They also note that spark plugs in poor condition can reduce gas mileage up to 12%. So keeping your vehicles in tip top shape can help save you money in the end.
Find the best gas prices
This may seem like a no-brainer, but you really can save up to $.15 a gallon by doing a little research. Gasbuddy.com is a great free app you can download on your phone that will scour the prices of gas near you. It takes just a few seconds, but it can save several dollars in the end. If you happen to have a Costco or Sam’s Club membership, they offer members discounts of up to $.10 per gallon!
Tend to your tires
Underinflated tires are not only dangerous, they devour fuel economy by as much as 25%! However, it's equally important to make sure you don’t overinflate either. If you're not sure of the ideal tire pressure, you can check the owner's manual - or your local repair shop. Keeping your tires balanced and in alignment is equally important. Your miles per gallon will thank you.
Optimize your travel
The more you can consolidate your trips (with shorter, more efficient routes), the more money you will save. It just makes sense...and saves cents too.
Purchase gas during the coolest time of the day
According to HowToAdvice.com, gas is densest during the coolest time of the day. Keep in mind, gas pumps measure volumes of gasoline, not densities of fuel concentration. You are, therefore, charged according to the volume of your measurement. Why not fill up when you can get the most bang for your buck?
Make sure your gas cap is tight
If your gas cap isn’t sealed, fuel can evaporate without you even knowing it. Advance Auto Parts tells us that “Improperly sealed gas caps allow 147 million gallons of fuel vaporize every year in the U.S.” That’s a lot of gas. Make sure it doesn’t include any of yours.
Drive at a constant, moderate speed
A great way to improve fuel efficiency is to accelerate slowly (which uses less gas) and to break over a longer distance. According to fueleconomy.gov, “As a rule of thumb, you can assume that each 5 mph over 60 mphs like paying an additional $.20 per gallon for gas. ”Cruise control is great if you need help with this.
By implementing even a few of these suggestions, you can hopefully save a few cents per fill-up. And that’s what we’re all about at Synovia Solutions... safety, service, and savings.
