After several consecutive increases of fuel prices, motorists will be elated by the decrease in fuel prices this week by R1.10 per litre for ULP95 and 45c per litre for diesel. Waiting for the petrol price decrease is, however, not the only way motorists can reduce their fuel spend.
While prices will see a considerable drop, does this mean motorists can relax when it comes to conserving fuel? The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert says, “It is imperative that motorists remain cognisant that fuel prices remain high. Despite the decrease, do not neglect economical driving which can further reduce fuel costs.”
Vehicle selection
If you will be buying a new vehicle soon, consider vehicles that prioritise fuel efficiency through design and engineering. According to research from the International Energy Agency, the average fuel consumption of modern light-duty vehicles decreased on average by 1.3% per year between 2005 and 2019. Other research shows certain vehicles provide an average of 44% savings in fuel spend.
Driver training
Yet, purchasing a new car may not be an option for many. This is not the only way motorists can reduce their fuel spend. The use of defensive driving techniques can account for up to 20% savings in fuel spend.
Defensive driving not only reduces your chances of collisions on the road but can also save on fuel spend:
- Vehicles RPMs between 2 000 and 3 000, can reduce fuel spend by up to 20%
- Watching 12 seconds ahead helps anticipate traffic conditions to reduce unnecessary braking and acceleration
- Avoiding sudden lane changes and harsh acceleration reduces fuel consumption
- Reducing speed by 20km/h can help reduce fuel consumption by 20%
- Three second following distances reduces the need to slow down and accelerate again
Ensuring drivers are sufficiently trained is essential to reduce overall fuel spend. “Individuals and organisations may not be able to control the fuel price fluctuations, however, one can adopt a range of fuel-saving strategies. By upskilling yourself and workforces with driver training, it results in both fuel saving and safer driving habits,” says Herbert.
The company was established in 1999 and became part of the RAC Group (established in 1997) some 9 years later – in 2008 – and has expanded its field of operation to cover the African continent with dedicated branches in SA’s three main centres.
To that end MasterDrive has a dedicated team of professional, internationally accredited instructors who deliver training on a range of programs that encompass the full spectrum of vehicles – from motorbikes to cars to busses and trucks.
In addition to delivering internationally proven defensive driving courses the company also offers training required by legislation – dangerous goods and forklift – bespoke courses are also available to corporates and emergency services, all with a view to changing and developing driver behaviour.
The company’s proven track record with several SA’s top 500 companies ensures that it is a viable operation providing a platform for rolling out its own BBBEE transformation program that contributes toward the wellbeing of all South Africans.
MasterDrive also boasts a proud record of supporting several NPO’s whose drive is to educate road users on safety and so enhance the profile of changing behaviour by whatever reasonable means it can promote and offer. These include, but are not limited to, Psychometric assessments, on-road assessments and corporate safety events.
Making a difference, one day, one kilometre, one life at a time!!!