Going easy on the juice

The publication provides ten top tips to help commercial vehicle drivers save fuel and money. It is suggested that aggressive driving uses more fuel and that a calm approach to driving should be adopted. Modern engines do not need to be warmed up so idling should be avoided. With regard to speed, staying within the speed limit is the priority and allows time for smoother reactions. Using the momentum of the vehicle will save fuel and cruise control should be used whenever it is safe to do so. Changing up a gear improves fuel consumption by between 10 and 30 per cent and block changing techniques achieve this more quickly. The importance of anticipation and smooth reactions are emphasised. Route planning and obtaining information about congested areas to be avoided will help save fuel. Figures are provided to show the reductions in fuel consumption that can be obtained by improvements to airflow around the vehicle. The possibility of offering drivers financial incentives for fuel saving is also suggested.