With PM Modi urging fuel conservation, here's how you can improve your car's fuel efficiency

With global crude oil prices surging amid Middle East tensions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged citizens to conserve fuel. Here are practical driving and maintenance tips to improve your car's fuel efficiency.

Amid rising global crude oil prices triggered by escalating tensions in the Middle East, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called on citizens to reduce fuel consumption and revive practices such as work-from-home wherever possible.

The appeal comes at a time when international crude oil prices have surged sharply, increasing pressure on India’s fuel import bill and raising concerns over a possible hike in petrol and diesel prices in the coming days.

Speaking on the need for conservation, the Prime Minister stressed that reducing petrol and diesel consumption is in the national interest, as India spends a massive amount of foreign exchange on fuel imports.

With fuel prices expected to remain volatile, improving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency can not only reduce running costs but also help lower overall fuel consumption. Here are some practical tips to maximise mileage from your car.

Be smooth on the throttle

Aggressive acceleration and hard braking are among the biggest fuel guzzlers. Smooth throttle inputs and gradual acceleration help the engine work more efficiently and consume less fuel. Driving at a steady speed, especially below 2,000rpm can improve fuel economy. Rapid overtakes and constant speeding only waste fuel, particularly in city traffic where vehicles eventually bunch up again.

Anticipate traffic movement

Looking ahead and reading traffic conditions can save more fuel than most drivers realise. Spot traffic signals early and lift off the accelerator in advance instead of braking hard at the last second. Allowing the vehicle to coast smoothly reduces unnecessary fuel burn and also lowers wear on brakes and tyres.

Avoid unnecessary idling

Idling delivers zero kilometres per litre. Modern engines are designed to handle frequent restarts, making stop-start driving more efficient than prolonged idling. If you are waiting at a signal for a long duration, switching off the engine can save a noticeable amount of fuel over time. Cars equipped with automatic start-stop systems already do this efficiently.

Keep your tyres properly inflated

Tyres play a crucial role in fuel efficiency. Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check tyre pressure regularly, especially before long drives. Proper wheel alignment and balancing also reduce drag and improve overall efficiency.

Reduce extra weight

The heavier the vehicle, the harder the engine has to work. Remove unnecessary luggage, unused items in the boot, or accessories that add extra weight. Roof racks and roof-mounted cargo boxes also increase aerodynamic drag. If they are not in use, removing them can improve fuel efficiency, especially during highway driving.

Service your car regularly

Skipping scheduled maintenance may save money temporarily, but it can reduce fuel efficiency significantly in the long run. Clean air filters, fresh engine oil and timely replacement of consumables ensure the engine performs optimally. A clogged air filter or degraded engine oil increases engine strain and fuel consumption. Using manufacturer-recommended engine oil grades also helps improve efficiency.

Use the highest suitable gear

Driving in lower gears at higher speeds burns more fuel. Once the vehicle reaches a stable cruising speed, shifting into the highest appropriate gear helps keep engine revs low and improves mileage. However, avoid lugging the engine at extremely low rpm, as that can also reduce efficiency.

Use AC on highways

Driving with windows fully open at highway speeds creates aerodynamic drag that can hurt efficiency. On highways, it is generally more efficient to keep the windows up and use the AC moderately.

Avoid poor-quality fuel

Using low-quality or contaminated fuel can affect engine performance and efficiency over time. Always refuel from trusted fuel stations and use the recommended fuel grade for your vehicle.

Additional fuel-saving tips

• Avoid sudden speed fluctuations on highways: Using cruise control on open highways can help maintain a constant speed and improve efficiency.
• Don’t ride the clutch: Keeping your foot partially on the clutch increases wear and wastes fuel.
• Drive during non-peak hours when possible: Less time stuck in traffic means lower fuel consumption.
• Keep windows and sunroof closed at high speeds: This reduces aerodynamic drag and improves highway mileage.
• Carpool whenever possible: Sharing rides with colleagues, friends or neighbours heading in the same direction can significantly cut individual fuel consumption, reduce traffic congestion and lower overall running costs.

At a time when global oil prices remain uncertain, small changes in driving habits can collectively make a significant difference, both to personal fuel bills and the country’s overall fuel consumption.

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