Handy hints for saving petrol

Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration, speeding and braking, wastes fuel. Sensible driving saves it.

"We call it ECODriving - ECOnomical because it conserves fuel and saves on fuel costs, and ECOlogical because it is better for the environment," says Andy Acho, Ford's worldwide director of environmental strategy.

"This is a perfect time to remind drivers of a few simple actions they can take to help conserve fuel by up to 25 per cent and save money at the same time."

* Studies show that aggressive driving, including fast starts and weaving in and out of traffic, doesn't save much time, wastes fuel and wears out some of the car's components, such as brakes and tyres, more quickly.

* Don't leave a car idling - today's engines don't need to be warmed up. Prolonged idling creates excess emissions and wastes fuel. Start the car and gently drive away.* Turn the engine off when idling for more than 30 seconds.

* Jackrabbit starts waste fuel. Accelerate smoothly and brake gradually. Change lead foot to light foot.

* Anticipate traffic conditions, and accelerate and decelerate smoothly - it's safer as well as reducing brake wear.

* Aim to maintain a constant speed - pumping the accelerator pumps more fuel into the engine.

* Drive at posted speed limits - this is a tip that may save a life as well as fuel.

* If your car has cruise control, use it.

* Avoid carrying a lot of luggage on the roof rack. The added frontal area affects aerodynamics and can reduce fuel economy by up to 25 per cent.

* Don't drive at higher speeds with windows wide open. It increases aerodynamic drag on the car and lowers fuel economy.

* Minimise use of air-conditioning. Use the air vents instead.

* Park in the shade to keep the car cool and reduce the need for air-conditioning.

* Remove excess weight. It makes the engine work harder and consume more fuel.

* Keep your engine tuned.

* Keep the wheels aligned. Wheels that are fighting each other waste fuel.

* Keep tyres inflated to the recommended pressure - this alone can reduce the average amount of fuel use by 3 to 4 per cent.

* Replace the air filter as recommended - always consult the owner's manual.

* Use good-quality, energy-conserving oils with a viscosity grade consistent with the manual.

* Use a fuel with good detergent additives to keep the engine clean and performing efficiently.

* Use a high-quality fuel with the lowest appropriate octane rating. Check the owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommendation. There is no benefit to using premium petrol in a vehicle calibrated for regular.