Latest van user information
Save Fuel - Save CO2 - Save Money
The type of van you drive and the way you maintain and use it has a significant impact on the amount of fuel it consumes. Every litre of diesel you use releases 2.63kg or carbon dioxide (CO2) into the atmosphere which contributes to climate change. The more fuel you save, the more cash you save so reduce your emissions and save money by following these simple tips:
Size matters
Choose the van that best suits the job. Do you need a big load space? It's cheaper to run a small van fully loaded than a half empty larger van. Hire a bigger van if its just a few times you need it and remember; overloading is illegal, hikes up your servicing costs and hammers your van's residual value. Get the right tool for the job at the start.
Motorway roller or city slicker?
Where will you drive and how fast? if you use motorways or dual carriageways, a big engine and overdrive sixth gear could save you fuel and cash. If you're always in town traffic, a smaller engine will save you fuel.
Don't go soft
Check tyre pressures each time you fill with fuel and you won't need to fill up so often. A tyre under inflated by 20% will add 3% to your fuel bills and cut tire life by around a quarter. Going soft could cost you £250 a year in extra fuel and tyres.
Look after the slippery stuff
Oils wear out too. Engine and gearbox oils have a tough life and if you don't change them reguarly, you'll use more fuel, damage your engine and gearbox, increase your repair bills and cut the residual value of your van.
Breathe easy
Blocked air filters can cost you. They can add 5% on your fuel bills as the engine works harder to suck in clean air. Summer dust and winter rain can both do the dirty on you.
Drive better, save cash
Are you a fuel and CO2 conscious driver? Learning how to drive for the economy and the environment can also cut 10 off your fuel bill. Visit www.safed.org.uk - it is designed to help everyone who drives a van as part of their job to improve their fuel efficient driving techniques.
Leave the low flying to the air force
Keep your speed down and you'll save fuel, money and emit less Co2. Limit your speed to 60mph on the motorway and save as much as 20% off your fuel bill. At 65mph, the saving is 10%. Use cruise control or have a speed limiter fitted.
The technology advantage
Satnav can save time, fuel and cash. It can keep you on th best route and some systems can route you around congestion and jams. Van telematics and tracking systems can monitor the performance of your van and check routes, distances, speeds and times to help you work better. They will also help with Benefit-in-kind van tax and can help find your van if someone steels it.
FREE ADVICE FOR FLEETS: You can find more free advice about how to reduce costs and emissions from car and van fleets at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk.
