Saving fuel

In Malawi all fuel has to be imported, transported (very) long distances, paid for in foreign currency against MWK, and are subject to logistic costs and taxes leading up to alsmost 5000 MWK/liter, the highest fuel price in the world. Now almost twice as much as one year ago, partly due to inflation and removing the previous set price cap. Probably not the end of it, now most of the world expects fuel scarcity due to the closure of the strait of Hormuz in the Middle East War. 

How can one safe up on fuel?

Driving more efficiently can save a significant amount of fuel. With small adjustments to your driving style, fuel consumption can often be reduced by 10 to 30 percent!

Try to maintain a steady speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration or hard braking. Looking further ahead on the road helps you anticipate traffic situations, which means you won’t have to constantly speed up or slow down.

Shift to a higher gear at lower engine speeds. Driving in a gear that is too low causes the engine to run at higher revolutions, which increases fuel consumption.

Always turn off the engine if you expect to be waiting for a while. When you need to slow down, let the car coast instead of braking immediately.

The condition of your car also matters when trying to save fuel. Regularly check your engine on the best fuel combustion possible (sparkplugs, injectors, airfilter, oxygen sensor  etc) and tire pressure, because bad fuel combustion and underinflated tires can increase fuel consumption by up to 20 percent or more. Keep your car as light as possible and avoid carrying unnecessary items.

Also, don’t drive too long with a nearly empty fuel tank. A very low fuel level can damage the electric fuel pump. Finally, use the air conditioning and heating only when necessary, as both systems increase fuel consumption.

If one can, walk/bicycle or take a minibus or plan and/or share your ride.

But alway travel safely!