| Despite soaring fuel costs, alarming smog advisories and frustrating congestion, we still can’t seem to break our addiction to the car. But with gasoline prices holding around $1.15 per litre and expected to climb to $1.25 in the fall, it’s a good time to start planning how to make the most of your tank. Try these seven tips to keep your money in your pocket and reduce your ecological footprint.
Slow down
Speeding might get you to your destination a little faster, but it’ll increase the cost of your trip. Gas mileage generally decreases significantly after 80 to 90 km per hour (optimal fuel economy varies with each vehicle). Every 10 km per hour over this optimal speed can decrease efficiency by 10 per cent and increase costs by around an extra 10 cents per litre. The U.S. government responded to the oil crisis of 1973 with a "National Maximum Speed Law" imposing a nationwide 88 km per hour (55mph) speed limit as one tactic to reduce fuel consumption.
Carsharing
It’s an option for anyone who either doesn’t have a car or would like to get rid of their car. It’s similar to renting a car, but more convenient. A community of people pool their money to share the use and costs of a shared car. The Calgary Alternative Transportation Co-operative currently has five cars being shared in the communities of Downtown West, Bridgeland, Hillhurst, Sunnyside and West Hillhurst. More information can be found on their website at www.catco-op.org.
Don’t idle
Modern vehicles are designed to warm up and cool down quickly. There is no need to leave your car running while running errands or start your car before leaving — even in the winter. Car engines are now equipped to withstand the Canadian climate. In fact, excessive idling can damage an engine’s components. And turning your engine off and on again uses less fuel than idling. According to the Alberta Motor Association, Albertans waste 11 million unnecessary idling minutes during the winter months. They recommend using a maximum of 30 seconds to warm up the car during the winter.
Change your habits
Seeking alternatives to driving alone and thinking about the way you drive will save you money at the pumps. According to Sustainable Calgary’s State of the City report, "Between 1964 and 2001, the vehicle kilometres travelled on Calgary streets on a typical weekday grew from 12.4 to 44.5 kilometres per person, an increase of more than 340 per cent." Carpool.ca is one place to get matched with others looking to commute together.
Reducing quick starts, hard braking and using cruise when possible will also increase your fuel efficiency.
Grouping errands together, walking, using public transit and telecommuting are other viable ways to reduce your fuel consumption and your dependency on the car. Alderman Druh Farrell sets an example by walking to work everyday.
Tolerate a little warm air. Using the air conditioner or opening the windows in your car can increase fuel costs up to 20 per cent. If it’s not too hot outside, use the flow-through air ventilation instead of the air conditioner or rolling down the windows.
Remove extra weight and wind resistance. Remove roof racks, bike racks and any extra baggage in or outside of your car when not in use. Carrying loads inside your car is more efficient than adding extra weight and wind resistance outside of the vehicle.
Maintenance
Keep up regular vehicle maintenance. Under-inflated tires, dull spark plugs, misaligned wheels, an oxygen sensor that isn’t working or dirty fuel and air filters can increase your fuel consumption by up to 15 per cent. Overall, an engine that is well maintained can save 50 per cent in fuel efficiency.
Choose a fuel efficient vehicle. Albertans purchase more SUVs and trucks than anyone else in Canada. When purchasing, consider a hybrid-electric, low-emissions vehicle or the most fuel efficient vehicle within the class you are considering. You can check the fuel efficiency of your car or the car you are considering purchasing at www.fueleconomy.gov. |
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