It really wasn’t a “fill your tank” kind of statement this time round. The much-anticipated wait around slashing fuel duty to help mitigate the rising fuel costs went only a small way to help those filling up their tanks with a 5p per litre cut on the fuel duty.

The government are claiming this to be the biggest reduction in cash terms to fuel duty that has ever been applied. But what does this mean to the average driver? It could save the average car driver £100 over the next 12 months, with van drivers saving £200 and hauliers £1,500.

With fuel duty representing more than half the cost of a litre, the public may have hoped more would have been done here. Whilst the cut took place from 6pm on 23 March 2022, many petrol stations are yet to be seen to pass this on to the public.

Here are some tips for helping to save on fuel

1. Accelerate Smoothly

Excessive speed is the biggest fuel-guzzler, so having a light right foot, and accelerating more smoothly can make all the difference. Driving erratically or aggressively like a boy racer can help you consume 60% more fuel!

2. Make Fewer Trips

Combine your journeys. Once the engine is warm it will operate at its most efficient, whereas several cold starts will increase fuel consumption even though the total mileage could be the same.

3. Don’t Carry Around Unnecessary Weight

It stands to reason that the heavier a vehicle is, the more fuel it will use. As such, don’t keep unnecessary items in your boot as they add weight to your vehicle, which isn’t going to help your mpg figures.

4. Go Easy on the Accelerator

This is not about what gear you’re in. You may be in a high gear and travelling at a reasonable speed, but if you’re pushing the accelerator down a long way to avoid changing into a lower gear, then you’re actually using more fuel not less.

5. Maintain the Speed Limit

Traffic allowing it is of course possible to shave some time off your journey by travelling at higher speeds, particularly on long motorway trips. Whilst you may arrive about 20 minutes early on a 200-mile trip by travelling at 80mph instead of 70mph, it could also be a false economy. The car may have been running for 20 minutes less, yet it will have used more fuel. That 20 minutes could cost you up to £7 extra in fuel.

6. Check Tyre Pressure

Ensure your tyres have the right pressure. Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption.

7. Turn off the Air-Con

Air conditioners use engine power and so use more fuel. If fuel efficiency is a priority, you should avoid using them unless absolutely necessary. This applies to heat as well, so it’s a good idea to dress according to the weather, even inside your car!

8. Close Windows

Not so much of a problem when you’re driving around town, but when you’re out of town or on the motorway and moving more quickly, closing windows and sunroofs can improve the aerodynamics of your vehicle.

9. Change up gear earlier

You’ll probably get the best mileage by driving in the highest possible gear for your vehicle and staying within the speed limit. In urban areas, change gears as quickly as possible with the lowest revs possible.

10. Car share

The best way to save fuel would be not to drive at all! It’s worth looking around for car share partners at work, with many businesses actively encouraging this.

If you would like to discuss how the Spring Statement will impact you, please contact our team today.