How to save on fuel consumption

How to save on fuel consumption

Both individuals and businesses in South Africa are always concerned about petrol prices! Fuel consumption policies cannot be overlooked by fleet managers. That’s why we at Beekman Canopies decided to share these ten suggestions for reducing fuel use.

• Avoid aggressive driving, which can reduce fuel economy by 15-30% on highways and 10-40% in stop-and-go traffic, with little to no time savings. Give drivers advice on how to prevent aggressive driving, such as pretending there is an egg under your foot that must not crack to reach more moderate and steady speeds.
• Encourage drivers to keep an eye on their instant fuel consumption display to become more aware of their current usage and when to change their driving. Provide drivers with a monthly fuel consumption report to track their progress and urge them to continue to improve. Make energy awareness a part of your company’s culture.
• Consider carpools: when traveling in the same direction, urge drivers to share a vehicle. From an organisational standpoint, implement a policy allowing drivers to drive their vehicles home if it is on their route, so avoid unnecessary trips to the office.
• Employees who receive a car allowance and have the option to choose their own vehicle should be encouraged to adopt more fuel-efficient models.
• Although gasoline has a set price, diesel can be purchased at a lesser cost. Drivers should be required to use fuel stations with lower diesel pricing.
• Investigate route optimisation software to assist in selecting the straightest paths, avoiding traffic signals, reducing idling, and choosing routes with minimal elevation change.
• Lead by example: a company culture that prioritizes low fuel usage begins at the top. Avoid excluding executives to the same standards as the rest of the workforce. Select CEOs to be “poster children” for lowering fuel consumption and urging others to do the same.
• Keep up with the times by keeping track of new technology that can help you save fuel costs. When it comes to fleet upgrades, look for vehicles that provide these benefits while staying within your budget.
• While most businesses utilize telematics to cut down on gasoline costs, make sure you’re aware of all the features it has to offer.
• Use your telematics system to rate your drivers, then use these results to reward top performers and create healthy competition.

Ultimately, whether you’re a fleet business owner or just on your way for a weekend away in your bakkie, the best method to cut fuel usage is to provide drivers with the incentive and skills to do so.

How to save on fuel consumption