With the price of gasoline increasing, all motorists are looking for a way to save money. One method in particular has proven itself.
Complicated geopolitical context, inflation, fall of the euro against the dollar, it is an understatement to say that the price of gasoline has increased in recent years. While some opt for a hybrid or electric vehicle, other drivers try by all means to reduce their gas bill, even if it means traveling miles to find the cheapest pump. But some common sense advice could actually help lower the bill.
Some recent cars are now equipped with an ECO mode. This saves fuel by acting on particularly energy-intensive vehicle functions, such as air conditioning, but also on driving actions. But according to several studies, ECO mode is actually not very effective. The American consumer association Consumer Reports carried out a test in 2024 which revealed that ECO mode would have little or no direct effect on a car’s fuel consumption in the city or on the highway. The testers noted, however, that “the interest of this function lies in its ability to encourage economical driving which can make a difference.”
To save up to 20% on gasoline, the secret actually lies in adopting new driving habits. According to the US Renewable Energy Laboratory, aggressive driving (speeding, sudden stops and rapid acceleration) can increase fuel consumption by 10% to 40% in the city and 15% to 30% on the highway. While driving smoothly, without jerks, would, conversely, reduce fuel consumption by 5 to 10% on average, and even up to 20% in traffic jams.
Here are other little tips to reduce your fuel consumption: use cruise control when possible to maintain a constant speed, avoid using roof bars or roof boxes, plan your trips in one go instead of making several short trips, avoid using air conditioning when it is not essential, and finally, always check the tire pressure.
