Never fill the tank completely, brake less and save more money as gas and diesel costs rise
An expert has revealed his top fuel hacks to reduce the cost of gasoline and diesel.
People across Ireland are facing a severe cost of living crisis, with motorists in particular feeling the pinch.
Fuel costs are expected to increase further due to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Richard Williams, head of transport policy at the North’s Consumer Council, says Belfast Live what drivers can do to make a tank last longer.
He said: “The advice we would give is to shop around because there are savings to be had even if they aren’t huge.
“One thing we suggest is to reduce your commute if you can, but obviously a lot of people can’t. We encourage people to use public transport if possible.
“The evidence we’ve had for a number of years is that it’s cheaper to travel by bus than by car if you take into account all the costs of running the car.
“It’s also important to maintain your car because making sure your tires are properly inflated and making sure your car isn’t cluttered with junk can make it run more efficiently,” he said.
Mr Williams has revealed the Consumer Council’s top fuel tips to save money.
- Keep your tires inflated – reduce drag
- Declutter your car – Less weight means less fuel
- Don’t fill up your car – fuel is heavy
- Brake and accelerate less – they consume fuel
- Avoid stopping and starting whenever possible – drive slowly
Talking about why fuel prices are increasing dramatically, he explained, “It’s all related to the price of international crude oil. We’ve seen this increase over the past year, the latest figure is $119 ( €108) today for a barrel, while only yesterday it was $112.93 (€102), and a year ago it was $64 (€58).
(Picture: Collins)
“This increase was happening regularly, but as global economies emerged from Covid, demand increased. But with the situation in Ukraine over the past week and the huge uncertainty, it has created uncertainty in international markets. as for supply chains remaining intact. All of this means that crude oil prices have really skyrocketed.
“It probably hasn’t quite made its way to the pumps yet, even though we’re seeing these increases. Analyzes suggest it’s not going away quickly and it probably hasn’t peaked yet.”
It comes amid serious concerns over the threat of a fuel crisis in Ireland, with fears of queues at petrol pumps.
A letter has been sent to Taoiseach Micheal Martin, Tanaiste Leo Varadkar and Energy Minister Eamon Ryan setting out “deep concerns at indications of an impending supply crunch”, from the Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA).
AA Ireland said petrol and diesel prices were at record highs, while Applegreen warned of a “substantial” increase in petrol and diesel prices for its business customers from Saturday.
The price of a liter of petrol has already risen to €2 on certain forecourts.