As fuel prices continue to climb, many motorists feel the pinch every time they pull into a petrol station. While global oil markets may be beyond individual control, small changes in driving habits and travel planning can make a noticeable difference to household budgets.
Harpreet Singh Kandra, Senior Academic and Researcher at Federation University, says informed choices about how we travel can help drivers stretch every litre further while also benefiting the environment.
“When fuel prices climb faster than our patience, every trip to the petrol station can feel like a small emotional crisis,” Kandra says. “But while we cannot control global oil markets, we can control how we drive, plan and travel.”
He says difficult economic periods can also encourage people to rethink habits and find smarter ways to get around.
“Challenging times often create opportunities to reflect, rethink our habits and even collaborate with others,” Kandra says. “If more people think consciously about saving fuel, the benefits go beyond our wallets. Reduced fuel use also means less pollution, stronger community connections and a healthier environment.”
One of the first steps, he says, is understanding how efficiently your car uses fuel.
“Many drivers don’t actually know their vehicle’s fuel mileage,” Kandra says. “It’s easy to track. Fill the tank, note the kilometres driven and record how much fuel you add at the next refill.”
Fuel efficiency is typically measured in kilometres per litre or litres per 100 kilometres, and tracking these numbers can help drivers better understand both their vehicle’s performance and their own driving habits.
Kandra also encourages people to reconsider how often they use their cars.
“Sometimes the best way to save fuel is simply to drive less,” he says. “Carpooling can reduce costs and also create new connections with neighbours or colleagues.”
Schools and workplaces can also play a role by helping coordinate shared travel arrangements. Public transport, he adds, is another practical option that allows commuters to relax, read or catch up on work instead of focusing on driving.
“For shorter distances, walking or cycling is excellent not only for the environment but also for personal health,” he says.
Choosing the right vehicle for each trip can also make a difference. Many households now have more than one car, and using a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle for short trips can significantly reduce fuel consumption.
Planning journeys ahead of time can further help drivers avoid unnecessary fuel use.
“Combining errands into one trip and using navigation tools to avoid heavy traffic can save both time and fuel,” Kandra says. “Less time on the road means less frustration and lower fuel costs.”
Basic physics also plays a role in fuel efficiency. Carrying unnecessary weight in the car forces the engine to work harder, while roof racks increase wind resistance and should be removed when not needed.
“At lower city speeds, opening the windows can be more efficient than using air conditioning,” Kandra explains. “But on highways, open windows create drag, so closing them and using the air conditioner may actually be more fuel efficient.”
Driving style and vehicle maintenance are equally important. According to Kandra, fuel efficiency tends to drop significantly when driving above 90 to 100 kilometres per hour. Poorly inflated tyres, clogged air filters, worn spark plugs or dirty engine oil can also increase fuel consumption.
“Wheel misalignment creates drag that forces the engine to burn more fuel,” he says. “And premium fuel generally does not improve efficiency unless your engine specifically requires it.”
A small but useful trick, he adds, is to fill the petrol tank during cooler times of the day.
“Fuel is slightly denser when it is cool, meaning you get marginally more energy per litre,” Kandra says.
Ultimately, he believes fuel conservation is about more than just saving money.
“Saving fuel is also about being mindful of our resources and our environment. With a little planning and smarter driving, we can make travel cheaper, greener and even more enjoyable.”
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
