Ever wonder why some drivers seem to squeeze extra miles from the same tank? It isn’t magic – it’s a mix of habits, tech, and a little common sense. In this guide we’ll break down the biggest factors that affect how far you can go, whether you run on petrol, diesel or electricity. You’ll walk away with a short list of actions you can try right now.
The first step is to stop trusting the sticker numbers. A car’s official fuel economy is measured under very calm lab conditions, so real‑world mileage is usually lower. Pull up your recent fill‑up receipts or the car’s trip computer and calculate the actual distance you covered per litre or kWh. That simple audit shows you where you stand and gives a baseline for improvement.
If you own an electric vehicle, watch the state of charge (SoC) range indicator closely. Many drivers let the battery sit at 20% for days, which can reduce overall capacity. Keeping the SoC between 20% and 80% on a regular basis helps preserve the battery and can add a few kilometres to each charge.
Speed is the biggest mileage killer. Every 10 km/h you add above 70 km/h can cost you about 5‑7% more fuel. Try to cruise at the speed limit or a bit below on highways. It feels slower, but you’ll notice the fuel gauge climb slower too.
Gentle acceleration and early upshifts are next. When you floor it from a stop, you waste energy that a smooth start would have used. Let the car reach about 2,000 rpm before you shift up, and avoid revving high in higher gears – the engine works harder and burns more.
Coasting is an underused trick. If you see a red light a few seconds ahead, lift off the accelerator early and let the car roll. Modern engines cut fuel cut‑off during coasting, so you actually use less while you’re still moving.
Maintenance matters too. A dirty air filter, low tyre pressure, or old spark plugs can shave off up to 10% of your range. Check tyre pressure once a month and keep it at the recommended level – the right pressure reduces rolling resistance and improves fuel burn.
Finally, lighten the load. Roof racks, heavy cargo boxes, or even a full spare tyre add weight and wind drag. If you don’t need them for a particular trip, take them off. You’ll feel the difference in both acceleration and fuel use.
Putting these habits together can easily add 15‑20% more distance per tank or charge. It’s not about crazy upgrades, just smarter everyday choices. Give one or two a try on your next drive and watch the numbers improve.
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