If you need a van for your business there can be huge costs associated with running it. Aside from the initial purchase cost, there are maintenance costs as well as the ever-increasing price of fuel. But there are a number of ways that you can get better mileage from your vehicle which, in turn, helps to keep your costs down. Let’s take a look at a few ways to get better mileage from your van.
Look Forward! Drive smoothly. By putting light throttle and keeping away the heavy braking, you can alleviate both fuel consumption and wear and tear. Investigation says driving methods can affect fuel efficiency by as much as 30 per cent.
Go steady on the pedal
Whether you’re accelerating or braking, the additional load on your engine requires more fuel. Driving at a steadier, more even pace will help you save fuel. Of course, there will be situations when you can’t avoid having to brake hard, but where possible you should try to avoid doing so. Mixing errands into one trip saves you time and penny. Many short trips taken from a cold beginning can utilized twice as much fuel as a longer multiuse trip covering the similar distance when the engine is warm. Trip planning makes sure that travelling is done when the engine is warmed-up and well organized.
Plan ahead
According to the RAC your engine is more efficient once it’s warmed up, so try to plan your route to include as few stops as possible. As well as planning your route you should also try to plan the loads you carry. The heavier the load you carry, the more fuel you will consume.
Forget engine enhancements
Adding performance gadgets to your van will increase your fuel consumption, so steer clear. If you want to modify your van, consider things that are going to protect your vehicle, thus adding to its resale value. A Speedliner like those supplied by https://www.vehicle-accessories.net/interiors/van-linings/speedliner-euro-fr is a great addition to your vehicle. This liner is sprayed onto the inside of the van and helps to protect from the wear and tear of everyday use as well as reducing the risk of rust and corrosion. Because it’s sprayed on, there is minimal loss of space in the back of your van.
Stick to manufacturer’s recommendations
This goes for oil, fuel and parts. Whilst people have a tendency to believe that these recommendations are there to get you to spend more on expensive parts, they’re actually there to ensure that your vehicle runs as efficiently as is possible. It’s also important to stick to the manufacturer’s guidance on maintenance. Replacing oil and filters, for example, at the right intervals can have a huge impact on the efficiency, and therefore fuel consumption, of your vehicle.
So, a bit of thought about how you drive and look after your van can save you on fuel.
Keep away harsh roads whenever feasible, since dirt or gravel can steal you of up to 30 per cent of your gas mileage. Every time the wheels bounce up and down, forward movement energy is kept away from the vehicle.