We all know that cars aren’t good for the environment, but most of us can’t manage without one. You can change your driving habits to be as environmentally friendly a driver as you can. Here’s how to do it.
The best way to be a more eco-friendly driver is to buy as green a car as possible, like an electric car, whether you buy new or used cars. If you’re not looking for a new car, you can change the way you drive instead.
Car Share
Fill any empty seats in your car. This will lower the number of cars going in the same direction, such as on your commute to work. Perhaps carpool with some colleagues. Just make sure that everyone is insured properly if you’re going to drive each other’s cars.
Check Your Tyre Pressure
If your tyres are under-inflated then your engine has to work harder to turn them, which means you have to use more fuel.
The correct pressure will be different for different tyres, but the suggested pressure is usually printed on the inside of the driver’s side door and in your car’s handbook.
Slim Down Your Belongings
Cut back on what you store in your car. Don’t be tempted to use your car as an extra cupboard. This is because a heavier car needs to burn more fuel. It might seem silly to think that leaving things in the boot will have a negative impact, but the extra weight makes a difference. Create extra space in your garage for these belongings, the best work bench may help.
Take Your Car For A Service
If you’re planning a long journey, then it might be a smart idea to book in for a service to make sure everything is in good working order.
It’s worth having your car’s emissions checked while your car is in the garage. If there’s an issue with any part of the exhaust system then you could be creating harmful fumes.
Plan Your Journey
Try to avoid being on the road at the busiest times. Being stuck in traffic with the engine idling isn’t the best way to drive. Try to be out when the roads are quieter.
Check whether an alternative route might be faster, even if it is actually longer in terms of the mileage. If a route is less popular, it might take you less time.
Make It More Aerodynamic
Avoid attaching roof racks and boxes to your car, as these will push up the amount of drag and make your car consume more fuel. The same thing happens if you often attach things like mountain bikes to the top or back of your car.
Drive Steadily
If you can keep a steady speed, it will reduce the amount of fuel that you burn through on a journey. If you have a heavy foot as you drive, you’ll need to visit more petrol stations. Accelerate smoothly and see what’s happening on the road ahead so you can better anticipate the need to brake and bring the car to a stop more gradually.
Photo by Dan Gold on Unsplash
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