Top Tips for Green Van Driving

If you spend a lot of time on the road then making some simple changes to the way you drive could save you money. Not only that, you’ll be doing your bit for the environment as well.

What’s in it for you?

By becoming a ‘green’ van driver you’ll benefit from:

• Reduced fuel consumption and costs
• A van in better condition – which means savings on van maintenance
• The knowledge that by reducing your CO2 emissions you’re making the environment a better place to live

How to do it

So, how do you actually go about making the changes which will save you money and protect the environment? We’ve put together some tips to set you off in the right direction.

Gears. Make sure you’re driving in the correct gear. By doing so you’ll save on fuel.

Relax. If you drive while stressed out you’re likely to drive more erratically and use more fuel.

Excess weight. Only drive with what you need on board. Carrying excess weight uses lots of fuel.

Engine off. If you’re going to be stationary for more than a couple of minutes then switch your engine off.

Numbers game. Try and group jobs together to avoid making unnecessary journeys.

Van maintenance. Keeping your van in good condition, especially making sure the engine is tuned, will not only improve your van’s performance but keep fuel consumption down.

Air conditioning off or used sparingly. Air con may keep you cool but it eats fuel.

Nose to nose. Where possible avoid the rush hour and congested areas. Consider delaying your journey or starting out earlier to avoid busy times.

Drag. Keep your windows up where possible. Driving with the windows down increases drag and that means more fuel is used.

Revving. Avoid revving the engine while you’re waiting at traffic lights as it uses fuel unnecessarily and damages the engine.

Inflation. Make sure your tyre pressures are as they should be. If they’re out you could be using 3% more fuel than necessary.

Va va Voom. Avoid harsh acceleration and braking. By becoming a smooth driver you’ll reduce your fuel consumption.

Electrics. Only use what you need as electrical devices guzzle fuel.

Reduce your speed. The faster you go, the more fuel you use. So, apart from sticking to speed limits, keep your speed down. By driving at 50 mph rather than 70 mph you could be using up to 30% less fuel.

By incorporating these simple tips into your daily van driving routine should see reductions in your fuel consumption and maintenance costs. Why not see how much you could save on your van insurance too?

Don’t forget to give yourself a pat on the back for doing the right thing for the environment too.

The information contained within this article is for general information purposes only, it does not constitute advice. Direct Line endeavours to keep the information up to date and correct but does not make any representation or warranties of any kind about its completeness, accuracy, reliability or suitability. Any reliance you place on the information is strictly at your own risk. Direct Line will not be liable for any direct or indirect loss or damage arising out of or in connection with the use of this information.