Fuel Saving Tips for Diesel Drivers

Fuel Quality

We have noticed that not all fuels are equal and you do seem to get what you pay for. Cheap (supermarket) fuel gives worst economy and rougher running, whereas premium fuels like Shell Extra or V Power, and/or adding a Diesel additive, will give smoother running, better performance and reduced fuel consumption.

You may pay more at the pump, but it is likely that you'll get a better return on your mileage.

Tyres and Tyre Pressure

Wider tyres offer more rolling resistance than narrow tyres, so whilst they may improve the cornering and handling of the vehicle you are paying a price just to push the rubber over the road. Just like fuel, you get what you pay for with tyres too, cheaper tyres are likely to adversely affect your fuel economy. One key factor you do have control over is your tyre pressures - check them regularly and keep them correct or even 1 or 2 psi higher (but do not exceed the manufacturers high speed /full load pressure).

Driving Style

Remember you are driving a DIESEL not a petrol engine! Diesels should be driven to use the low down torque , most diesels product their maximum torque at just 2000 rpm, and above 3000 rpm it may drop off quite steeply. In Normal driving change up at around 2000 rpm. Also remember that it is a turbo-diesel and that below about 1400 rpm the turbo is not doing much so the diesel is in effect not a turbo and is much less efficient. By all means tootle along with the revs below 1400 rpm on a light throttle, but if you need to accelerate drop a gear to use the turbo.

Observation and Anticipation

You'd be amazed just how much fuel you can save by reading the road way ahead. For example in my Discovery TD6 I can take my foot of the throttle a quarter of a mile before a roundabout on a dual carriage way without a problem - that's 1/4 mile of free driving! Anticipate entering a roundabout so you can slot in without stopping. Don't drive close behind the vehicle in front and have to brake every time they do - the extra space is your 'coasting' space where you can slow without braking. Learn do drive smoothly round bends without braking and accelerating - it is actually quicker and more economical. Racing lines, turn in points, clipping points and so on are not just for racers!