Fuel prices remain one of the biggest ongoing expenses for motorists and that reality continues into 2026. While global influences dictate what we pay at the pump, improving driving habits is one area where we can still make a genuine difference.
For many of us, a car is more than just transport; it’s our pride and joy, an investment. It represents freedom, reliability and independence. Looking after it properly and driving thoughtfully is one of the most effective ways to save money on fuel.
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The good news is it doesn’t require drastic lifestyle changes to save money. Subtle adjustments to driving habits can make a noticeable difference. In 2026, with the fuel duty freeze extended until September, both petrol and diesel remain slightly cheaper than they otherwise might have been, but even small efficiencies can add up to hundreds of pounds over a year.
Why driving habits still matter
Fuel prices fluctuate, but efficiency remains constant. Studies from the Energy Saving Trust suggest smoother driving can improve fuel economy by up to 15%. For a typical driver covering 10,000 miles a year, this could mean saving more than £200 annually, depending on the vehicle. At a time when many people are trying to spend less, understanding how to save on fuel is one of the simplest places to start.
Rapid acceleration, harsh braking and unnecessary idling all waste fuel. By contrast, a calmer, more deliberate approach not only reduces costs, but also puts less strain on key components such as the transmission and clutch, brakes, tyres, suspension and drivetrain. This can lower maintenance bills over time, making fuel-saving techniques a win for both your wallet and the long-term health of your car.
The term “hypermiling” has existed for years, but it’s recently regained attention as drivers search for smarter ways to reduce fuel costs. At its core, it’s a set of practical driving techniques designed to maximise fuel efficiency. It centres on anticipation, encouraging people to read the road ahead, ease off the accelerator earlier and minimise unnecessary stopping. Maintaining steady speeds and making the most of a car’s natural momentum, rather than relying on repeated acceleration and braking, are also key principles.
RAC testing has shown that drivers who consciously adopt these techniques can achieve noticeable improvements in miles per gallon without increasing journey times. In simple terms, hypermiling is mindful, efficient driving, refined through awareness and forward planning.
Speed remains one of the biggest factors influencing fuel consumption. Driving faster causes aerodynamic drag to rise sharply, meaning the engine must work harder and burn more fuel. Most cars are most efficient at steady speeds between 45 mph and 55 mph, depending on the engine design.
Driving in the highest appropriate gear also plays a significant role, as engines use less fuel when revs are lower. For manual cars, this means shifting up promptly and cruising in a higher gear whenever conditions allow. For motorists considering how to save fuel on automatic car models, the principle is similar. Although they’re designed to select efficient gears themselves, gentle throttle inputs and reducing aggressive kickdown will help them do their job properly.
Maintaining momentum is another good habit. Each time a car slows unnecessarily, extra fuel is needed to get it moving again. Looking well ahead, easing off early for junctions or traffic lights and allowing the car to slow naturally can all contribute to savings.
Maintenance and the hidden costs of neglect
Regular maintenance is often overlooked when discussing how to save money on fuel, yet it has a significant impact. Underinflated tyres alone can increase consumption by 3%, according to government data. Across a year, this small percentage becomes a noticeable cost.
Keeping tyres correctly inflated, ensuring the engine is properly serviced and replacing clogged air filters can all improve efficiency. Even something as simple as using the correct grade of engine oil can reduce friction and improve fuel economy. A well-maintained car runs more smoothly, responds better to gentle driving and ultimately uses less petrol or diesel to do the same work.
Carrying heavier weight
Savings are also affected by what you carry and how the air flows around your car. Excess weight requires extra energy to move, while external accessories increase drag. Research from the Energy Saving Trust suggests an empty roof rack can increase fuel consumption by around 10% at motorway speeds, while a roof box can increase it by more than 30%.
Open windows at higher speeds have a similar effect, disrupting airflow and forcing the engine to work harder. These small, everyday decisions collectively play a meaningful role in making savings over time.
For owners focused on how to save money on diesel fuel, avoiding short, cold trips is key, as they are least efficient before reaching operating temperature. Diesel engines typically achieve better economy on longer journeys, making them well suited to motorway driving.
Classic cars present a different challenge. They lack modern fuel-saving technologies, but careful maintenance, gentle driving and sympathetic use of gears can still make a difference. While absolute efficiency may never match modern vehicles, thoughtful driving can reduce unnecessary consumption and wear.
Modern cars come equipped with tech designed to improve efficiency, but it works best when drivers understand its limitations. Stop-start systems, for example, can save fuel by shutting off the engine when stationary. Studies suggest idling can use up to half a gallon of petrol per hour, so allowing the engine to stop when waiting for more than a few seconds can be beneficial.
Cruise control is another tool that can help on motorways by maintaining a steady speed. However, on hilly roads, it may increase fuel use by holding throttle input longer than a human driver would. Knowing when to use technology and when to rely on your own judgement is part of driving efficiently.
With the fuel duty freeze extended until September 2026, drivers have some breathing space, but that shouldn’t diminish the importance of efficient habits, as learning how to save money is as relevant as ever.
