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Preparing For December: How to Improve Fuel Economy for Your Upcoming Festive Road Trip

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Preparing For December: How to Improve Fuel Economy for Your Upcoming Festive Road Trip

The December holidays are all about heading out for vacation. Going on a road trip is one of the most popular ways to celebrate the beginning of a new year in South Africa. We have great destinations, scenic roads, and plenty of attractions scattered around the country. 

However, in the last few years, we’ve seen fuel prices skyrocket, which makes going on a long drive much more financially taxing. 

Here at We Rent Cars, we believe that everyone should be able to enjoy a festive season road trip with friends and family! So, whether you’re renting a car from us, or have your own vehicle ready, here are some great tips to improve your fuel economy this festive season! 

5 Tips to Maximise Fuel Efficiency On Your Festive Season Road Trip: 

1. Check Your Tires Before Hitting the Road 

Having the correct tire pressure is an important factor in reducing fuel consumption. When you rent a car from We Rent Cars, we’ll ensure to have the tires inflated to the manufacturers recommendations! 

This is because driving with under-inflated tires will cause more drag, which creates more rolling resistance. Driving with tires that aren’t properly inflated can also cause immense wear and tear, which might result in you needing roadside assistance.

Luckily, We Rent Cars offers 24 hour roadside assistance to customers subscribed to our rent-to-buy model. With us, you’ll always be safe on the road! 

2. Don’t Overpack 

We understand that packing for a December holiday can be a challenge. You need to bring all the right clothes, swimming costumes, tents, and more! But, when it comes to fuel economy it’s important to remember that weight is your enemy.

The heavier your vehicle is, the more fuel it will consume. You should try and pack light for your holidays this year and remove anything you might not actually need. 

3. Plan Your Routes 

The longer your drive, the more fuel you’ll need. If you plan your routes beforehand, and ensure that you choose the fastest routes, you’ll get to your destination as quickly as possible. The less time that you spend on the road, the less fuel your vehicle will consume. 

Using an updated GPS system is a great way to reach your destination without taking unnecessary detours. 

4. Drive Sensibly and Don’t Over Accelerate

When you’re driving for hundreds of kilometres without any stops, it may be tempting to push down a little harder on the petrol pedal. However, doing so will have a negative effect on your fuel economy. 

Pressing down hard on the accelerator requires more work from your engine. The more work that the engine needs to do, the more fuel will be consumed. Try and maintain a consistent speed, and drive below the speed limits these December holidays! 

5. Take Your Car for a Service 

One of the best ways to increase fuel efficiency is by driving a vehicle that’s in tip-top shape. Servicing car items like the oil, brakes, tires, and water, can help prevent any problems from occurring while you’re on the road. 

When certain vehicle parts are not properly serviced before a long road trip the engine might have to work harder and thereby use more fuel. You’ll want your car running optimally for the long road ahead! 

At We Rent Cars, our rent-to-buy subscription comes with a free car service every 10 000 km for 54 months. When you rent a car from us, you’ll get it in the best condition possible right from the get-go! 

6. Minimise Air Conditioner Usage 

The summertime in South Africa can be brutal. The heat may have you and your family reaching for the air-conditioner without even giving it a second thought. It’s important to note that excessive air conditioning can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10%

Instead, bring plenty of water, roll down the windows, and embrace the South African sun! 

7. Avoid Excessive Idling 

Stopping for a few minutes while someone runs into a store or needs to go to the bathroom is common when on a long road trip. Many drivers tend to leave the engine running when stopping for short periods of time. 

Excessive idling, however, can consume plenty of fuel. It’s far more economical to simply turn the car off and start it back up once you’re ready to hit the road again. 

Visit We Rent Cars Before Your December Road Trip! 

Implementing the above strategies will help you save plenty of fuel and money on your festive road trip! If you’re looking for the perfect vehicle to drive this December, visit We Rent Cars to get your hands on a car for a great price! 

By subscribing to our rent-to-buy model, you will get your dream car and rent it on a monthly subscription basis. Not only is this a financially savvy way to get on the roads this December, but it also comes with many extra benefits, including: 

  • A tracking device

  • Yearly licence renewal

  • 24h roadside assistance

  • Comprehensive insurance

  • Minor services every 10 000 km for 54 months.



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