Eco-Friendly Driving Tips to Save Fuel and Reduce Emissions

Updated October 2026

How you drive has a big effect on how much fuel you use. Smooth, planned driving can noticeably cut fuel costs and emissions, and it also tends to be safer. Here are practical habits any driver can adopt.

Drive smoothly

Harsh acceleration and heavy braking waste fuel. Accelerate gently, look well ahead and ease off early when you see a red light or slowing traffic, so you brake less.

Keep a steady speed

Holding a consistent speed is more efficient than speeding up and slowing down. On highways, cruise control can help on flat roads. Driving at the speed limit rather than above it also saves fuel, because air resistance rises sharply at higher speeds.

Use the right gear

In a manual car, change up early, around 2,000 to 2,500 rpm for most petrol cars, and avoid labouring the engine. Automatic cars do this for you, but a gentle right foot helps them change up sooner.

Avoid unnecessary idling

If you are parked and waiting, turn the engine off. Many newer cars have stop-start systems that do this automatically in traffic.

Look after your car

• Tyre pressure: under-inflated tyres increase fuel use and wear. Check pressures monthly against the placard, usually inside the driver's door.
• Servicing: keep up with scheduled servicing and replace air filters as recommended.
• Weight and drag: remove unused roof racks and heavy items from the boot.

Use air conditioning wisely

Air conditioning uses extra fuel, but at highway speeds open windows create drag. As a rule of thumb, use windows around town and air conditioning on the highway.

Plan your trips

Combine errands into one trip, avoid peak-hour traffic where possible and choose routes with fewer stops. A warm engine is more efficient than several cold starts.

Thinking about an electric or hybrid car?

Many learners now drive hybrid and electric cars. The same smooth driving habits improve their range. Regenerative braking rewards drivers who slow down gradually.