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 A lot of energy is being wasted on New Zealand roads.
Transport accounts for over 40% of all New Zealand consumer energy use, with most of this figure representing cars.
Transport emits nearly half of the country's polluting carbon dioxide emissions.
Almost all of the energy used in transport is created by burning fossil fuels, a non-renewable energy source.
By thinking about how you get around and making some simple changes to how you travel, you can save money, build your fitness and help the environment. |
Alternatives to driving
- It's all too easy to hop in the car to take the kids to school (more...) or to go to the shops. But why not walk?
- Traveling short distances on foot will save you fuel and help you keep fit, and it's often more pleasant than being stuck in traffic.
- Then there's public transport, which is increasingly cheaper than running a car as petrol prices keep rising. You also save on parking tickets and mechanic bills.
- Other options for leaving your car at home include rideshare or ‘car pooling' and cycling.
How you use your car does make a difference
There's a lot you can do to reduce your fuel use. By making a few small changes to your driving style and keeping your car well tuned you can cut your fuel bill by as much as 20% - effectively giving you over two months free fuel a year.
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Drive smoothly |
Accelerate smoothly. Change gear early, but don't labour the engine. If you drive an automatic, choose economy gear switching as this will keep the engine speed down. |
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Don't speed |
By traveling at 100km/h instead of 110kmp/h you can trim around 13% from your fuel bill. |
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Look ahead |
Look ahead, maintaining a safe following distance and you'll keep at a more constant speed. This uses less fuel than constantly accelerating and braking. |
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Look after your car |
Keeping your tyres at the right pressure saves fuel, as does regularly checking the wheel alignment, engine timing, air filter and spark plugs. |
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Watch your air con |
Only use air conditioning when you really need it as it tends to guzzle up to 10% more fuel than if you left it off. The rear window demister can also be a drain so switch them off when you're not using them. |
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Keep your load down |
It sounds obvious, but a heavier vehicle means more drag. Ditch heavy items from the boot and roof when you're not using them. |
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Limit idling time |
If you're going to be stationary for more than 30 seconds, switch off your engine. |
Source:
www.energywise.org.nz |
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Further information:
Think Tank brochure - simple tips to save you money on petrol
[PDF 395 KB]
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