Three ways you can drive more sustainably

Motoring

Making your car eco-friendlier is not just a trend, but a responsibility. This involves adopting better driving habits, properly maintaining your vehicle, and considering alternative fuel options. 

Crystal Voogd from 5 Star Loans offers some practical tips to help you embark on this eco-friendly journey and drive more sustainably.

1) Adopt eco-friendly driving habits

One of the simplest ways to make your car more eco-friendly is to adjust your driving habits. Here are some key practices:

  • Maintain Optimal Tire Pressure: Keeping your tires properly inflated can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3%. “Under-inflated tires can create more rolling resistance for your vehicle, which means it uses more fuel,” Crystal says.
  • Minimise Idling Time: Idling consumes fuel and emits unnecessary pollutants. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off your engine. Modern engines use less fuel to restart than to idle for long periods.
  • Avoid Aggressive Driving: Rapid acceleration and braking can lower your gas mileage by 15% to 30% on highways and 10% to 40% in stop-and-go traffic. Smooth, gradual acceleration and deceleration are more fuel-efficient and better for the environment.

2) Maintain your vehicle regularly

Maintaining your vehicle in good condition not only extends its life but also makes it more eco-friendly. Here are some maintenance tips:

  • Tune the Engine: A well-tuned engine runs more efficiently, burns less fuel, and emits fewer pollutants. Regular engine checks and tune-ups are essential for optimal performance.
  • Replace Air Filters: A clean air filter improves gas mileage and reduces emissions. Dirty air filters can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%.
  • Use Eco-Friendly Motor Oil: Opt for motor oils labelled as ‘energy conserving’. These oils contain friction-reducing additives that improve fuel economy.

3) Choose alternative fuel options

Switching to alternative fuels can significantly reduce your vehicle’s environmental impact. Consider the following options:

  • Electric Vehicles (EVs): EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions and are becoming increasingly popular. “Many governments offer incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles,” Crystal says.
  • Hybrid Models: Hybrids combine a conventional gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. They are a good middle ground for those not ready to fully commit to an EV.

Investing in an eco-friendly vehicle is not just a financial decision but an ethical one. The long-term benefits, including cost savings on fuel and maintenance and contributing to a healthier planet, make it a worthwhile investment.

Decrease your vehicle’s impact on the environment

When you adopt eco-friendly driving habits, maintain your vehicle properly, and consider alternative fuel options, you can significantly decrease your vehicle’s impact on the environment. And remember, all efforts, no matter how small they are, count when it comes to protecting and preserving our planet for future generations.