Martin Lewis Reveals Drivers Can Slash Fuel Costs by Up to 30% with Simple Adjustments
Financial expert Martin Lewis has highlighted that drivers could potentially reduce their fuel expenses by "10% to 30%" through straightforward modifications to their driving behavior and vehicle maintenance. This advice comes at a critical time when fuel prices are steadily climbing, with petrol increasing by approximately 0.7p per day and diesel by 1.2p per day.
According to recent RAC data, the average cost per litre currently stands at 157.71p for petrol and 190.62p for diesel, placing significant financial pressure on motorists across the country.
Everyday Habits That Quietly Drain Your Wallet
In a TikTok video shared on his official account, the founder of MoneySavingExpert emphasized that common daily practices can substantially inflate fuel bills without drivers even realizing it. Lewis explained that ignoring these habits leads to unnecessary spending, while addressing them can result in considerable savings over time.
"Junk in your trunk is costing you money," Lewis warned, noting that every additional 45 kilograms of unnecessary weight reduces a vehicle's fuel efficiency by about 1%. He also identified roof racks as a hidden culprit, advising drivers to remove them when not in use to minimize aerodynamic drag, which forces the engine to work harder, especially on motorways.
Vehicle Maintenance and Driving Style Make a Significant Difference
Tyre pressure emerged as another crucial factor. Lewis pointed out that under-inflated tyres can increase fuel costs by 3% to 4%, urging motorists to maintain proper inflation levels regularly.
Regarding air conditioning usage, Lewis provided nuanced guidance: "When you're going at low speeds, your aircon can be really quite expensive," he said. However, at higher speeds, opening windows creates drag that may make air conditioning the more fuel-efficient option on faster roads.
The most impactful changes, according to Lewis, relate directly to driving behavior. He described the accelerator as "a money pump" and the brake as "a money burner," explaining that aggressive acceleration and braking waste fuel and the energy already expended to move the vehicle.
The Path to More Efficient Driving
Lewis advocates for smoother driving techniques to maximize fuel economy. This includes maintaining safe following distances, anticipating traffic flow, and avoiding sudden acceleration or braking. By adopting these practices, drivers can significantly enhance their vehicle's efficiency without altering their daily routines.
A spokesperson for the financial advice organization Assistance for Single Mothers commented on Lewis's recommendations: "What Martin Lewis is really highlighting here is the cost of inefficiency. Many households focus on cutting expenses but overlook how much money is lost through everyday habits like poor driving or lack of vehicle maintenance."
The spokesperson added: "Fuel is one of those costs where small percentage savings translate directly into real money. Over a year, even modest improvements can add up to a meaningful amount, especially when prices remain high. Building better driving habits is one of the simplest ways to reduce ongoing costs."
As fuel prices continue their upward trajectory, implementing these practical tips could provide much-needed relief for drivers seeking to manage their motoring expenses more effectively.
