With petrol prices showing no signs of decreasing, drivers across the country are trying to save money on fuel.
However, one way to save fuel during the cost of living crisis is by rolling up your windows if you are travelling over a certain speed.
Whilst this may seem counteractive during the current heatwave gripping the country, you will save more petrol by using your air-con instead of having your windows down.
This has been a much-debated topic in what will save you more fuel as using your air conditioning will waste fuel, and having your windows down will increase the drag in your car – causing the same effect.
If you are travelling over 45 mph, having your air-con on will be more fuel efficient than your windows down.
The best way to cool your car
To keep your car cool, it is best to stick to one method of cooling.
If you are travelling below 45 mph, having your windows or air-con on will have the same effect on cooling you and using your fuel.
However, once you reach 45 mph, your car is using more fuel to combat the added wind resistance caused by your windows being down.
It is believed that air conditioning can increase your fuel consumption by 10%, but driving at higher speeds with your windows down can increase your fuel consumption by 20%.
Driving in the heat
With the heat reaching new records making sure you stay cool in your car is even more crucial.
Our grade-A driving instructor, Nikki Bowns, who provides driving lessons in Hartlepool, states, “The best way to stay cool during the heat is to first make sure you have plenty of water to stay hydrated.
“If you are only planning on making shorter trips at slower speeds, then driving with your windows down will help keep your car cool whilst not drastically impacting your fuel. Also, if you make sure that you park your car in the shade, it will help keep it cool when you are not in it.”
You can read more on how to stay cool and be more fuel efficient on The Express.
