Saving every drop: Tips to reduce fuel use amid rising prices

As global tensions in the Middle East continue to push fuel prices upward, motorists are encouraged to adopt fuel-saving practices that can help households manage expenses while supporting energy conservation efforts.

One way to maximize fuel efficiency is by choosing vehicles that provide higher mileage per liter.

In general, the more kilometers a vehicle can travel per liter of fuel, the more efficient it is.

Plan trips ahead

While daily travel for work and other responsibilities is unavoidable, planning trips carefully can help reduce fuel consumption.

Consolidating errands or traveling with family members or coworkers through carpooling helps minimize the number of vehicles on the road.

This approach maximizes vehicle use while lowering fuel costs.

Motorists can also save fuel by selecting routes with lighter traffic, as long periods of idling can lead to unnecessary fuel consumption.

The Inter-Agency Energy Efficiency and Conservation Committee (IAEECC), led by the Department of Energy (DOE), recommended these strategies in an advisory issued on March 3.

“Implement route planning, trip consolidation, and carpooling or vehicle sharing to maximize vehicle utilization and reduce unnecessary fuel use,” the advisory stated.

Manage speed and load

Driver behavior also plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency.

Maintaining a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration can significantly reduce fuel consumption while promoting safer travel.

Observing proper speed limits and preventing vehicle overloading can also help minimize fuel use.

“Promote practices such as avoiding excessive idling, maintaining steady speeds, observing proper speed limits, and preventing vehicle overloading to minimize fuel consumption,” the advisory added.

Keep vehicles well-maintained

Regular vehicle maintenance can also improve fuel efficiency.

Ensuring proper tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, allowing vehicles to move more efficiently.

Following maintenance schedules—such as oil changes, replacing air and engine filters, and checking wheel alignment—can also improve performance and extend the life of the vehicle.

“Ensure scheduled preventive maintenance of vehicles to enhance operational efficiency and fuel performance,” the advisory noted.

Felix Villanueva, a resident of Agoo, La Union, who owns a 22-year-old utility vehicle, said proper maintenance and responsible driving help him keep fuel consumption low despite the age of his vehicle.

“My vehicle can still get me where I need to go while using less fuel because I follow speed limits and keep up with its maintenance schedule,” Villanueva said.

He added that simple habits, such as routine vehicle checks and careful driving, can make a noticeable difference in fuel efficiency over time.

With fuel prices expected to remain volatile, adopting practical fuel-saving habits can help motorists manage daily transportation costs while contributing to the country’s efforts to conserve energy.

Source: www.pia.gov.ph