People in South Africa have been facing massive fuel price hikes in recent months, worsened by the ongoing war in Ukraine which has increased the international price of crude oil. While there may not be much you can do to control the cost of fuel, there are several strategies you can use to reduce your fuel consumption and lower your overall fuel costs.
Firstly, it’s important to ensure that your vehicle is running at peak efficiency. This means keeping your tires properly inflated, getting regular tune-ups, and avoiding excessive idling. Additionally, you should try to combine errands into one trip, as this will reduce the amount of time you spend driving and the number of miles you put on your car.
Another way to save money on fuel price in South Africa is to be mindful of your driving habits. Aggressive driving, such as speeding and sudden braking, can significantly increase your fuel consumption. A study by the US Department of Transportation shows a clear correlation between safer driving and fuel economy. Instead, try to maintain a steady speed and anticipate traffic patterns to avoid unnecessary braking.
You can also consider alternative fuel sources such as electric cars, or hybrid cars. These vehicles typically have much better fuel economy than traditional gas-powered cars, which can save you money in the long run. Furthermore, you can also look for discounts or loyalty programs offered by certain fuel stations or fuel card providers. They are becoming more popular in South Africa due to their low running costs and environmental benefits. Additionally, the South African government has announced plans to increase the number of EV charging stations across the country, making it easier for people to own and use electric cars. Although it is important to note that the South African government does not regard electronic vehicles as possible solutions for global change, instead as a luxury item which is heavily taxed. Electronic cars face tariffs of 25% when being shipped into South Africa from another country, this is significantly higher than the 18% tariff paid on imported international combustion engine vehicles (ICE).
Lastly, it’s also worth considering public transportation or carpooling as an alternative to driving alone. Not only will this save you money on fuel, but it can also reduce traffic congestion and decrease your carbon footprint.
There are many ways to save money on fuel in South Africa, including maintaining your vehicle, driving efficiently, and considering alternative fuel sources. While we may not be able to control the cost of fuel, we can control how much fuel you use and ultimately how much we spend on fuel.
Image Credit: Maxim Hopman on Unsplash
