Posted on August 19, 2008 by Fiona Hilliard

In this era of inflation, recession and all-round belt-tightening, cheap petrol is hard to come by.  With this in mind, Argus Car Hire has come up with 10 ways for drivers to save money on their petrol when renting a car.  Whether you’ve just booked Spain car hire, France car hire or Italy car hire, you’ll find these tips worth considering when you’re counting the pennies at the petrol pumps.

1. Take It Easy

Aggressive acceleration and sudden braking wastes up to 60% more fuel than driving smoothly.  When driving away from traffic lights, it’s always better to accelerate gently. 

2. Follow the Road

Look ahead and read the conditions of the road.  Keep your eyes peeled for anything that will slow you down such as traffic lights or a driver pulling into a parking space.  By anticipating the road ahead, you’ll save fuel by slowing down earlier and avoiding a sudden stop.

3. No Revving

Not only is revving the engine annoying to all those around you, but it also does nothing but waste fuel.

4. Get in Gear

Using your gears correctly can save you up to 15% on petrol costs.  Always change into a higher gear when it becomes possible and safe to do so. 

5. Know Your Limits

Motorways have different speed limits depending on where you’ve rented your car hire.  Driving at 80mph on the motorway uses between 10%and 20% more fuel than doing 70 mph.  If you’re not in a rush, driving at 70mph will use between 20% and 30% more fuel than 50mph. 

6. Check Your Tyres

Make sure to check your tyre pressure during the duration of your car hire.  Under-inflated tyres can guzzle 3% more fuel.

7. Bye Bye Warm up, Hello De-icer

If you’re renting a car in a cold climate, or on a cold morning, don’t leave your car running to warm it up.  It causes unnecessary engine wear and wastes fuel.  Pack some de-icer and drive off straight away, ensuring that you have a clear view of the road ahead. 

8. Walk If You Can

It may sound bizarre for a car hire company to be suggesting you walk, but there is method in our madness! Short trips to the local shop on a cold engine use twice as much fuel as a warm engine. 

9. Use Air Conditioning Sparingly

Air Conditioning is terrific in hot climates or during peak summer temperatures, but is unnecessary the rest of the time.  The blowers are usually sufficient if you’re looking for a blast of air.  Avoid opening windows when driving at speed as this increases aerodynamic drag and  wastes more fuel. 

10. Keep Your Car Clean

Avoid accumulating clutter and rubbish in your car and unnecessary baggage as this will place added pressure on aerodynamic drag.  Keep a plastic or paper bag handy and dispose of all unwanted rubbish at a service station bin or at your destination.