Following these simple suggestions will reduce fuel and vehicle maintenance costs, improve local air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Drive less, explore options to carpool, walk or cycle to work or use public transport.
- Plan your trips and combine errands, cut down on unnecessary journeys.
- Avoid abrupt stops and starts, ‘smooth driving’ will save your fuel.
- Drive in the highest gear possible.
- Maintain a constant speed, use cruise control.
- Use air conditioning sparingly.
- Keep your vehicle well maintained, especially tire pressure.
- Removing unnecessary weight, or a roof rack, can improve fuel efficiency.
- Using a block heater warms oil and coolant and makes your engine easier to start, improving fuel efficiency.
- If you are replacing your car consider fuel efficient models or hybrid vehicles. Avoid vehicles that are more powerful then you need.
Did you know?
- Poor tire maintenance costs Canadians collectively around $500 million/year and wastes an estimated 643 million litres of fuel.
- Using air conditioning in stop-go traffic increases fuel consumption by as much as 20%.
- Walking and cycling improves your health: you can burn up to 350 calories per hour!
Source: Environment Canada
http://www.ec.gc.ca/cleanair-airpur/Facts-WS2309FEF9-1_En.htm#fact50
http://www.ec.gc.ca/cleanair-airpur/Facts-WS2309FEF9-1_En.htm#fact50