We are all aware that the cost of fuel has skyrocketed in recent months and have no doubt experienced that sinking ‘how much?!’ feeling at the pumps. For hybrid owners, taking advantage of the electric mode can thankfully mean reduced fuel costs, but for some journeys it’s inevitable that you will need to use some fuel, so let’s explore some simple things you can do today to get the most from every litre.
Twenty smart tweaks for MPG gains
1. Think!
Does it need to be a car journey? It might sound obvious but even journeys in EV mode cost money so consider walking, cycling or car sharing where possible.
2. Journey plan
We all know that when we’re running late, we rush which means reduced MPG so give yourself some more time. Think about combining errands into one trip – your hybrid is more efficient once it’s warmed up which means greater MPG.
3. Maintain the correct tyre pressures
Having underinflated tyres, even by just 10%, can increase fuel consumption by approx. 2%, so double check yours are right – check your owner’s manual or look for a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door frame.
When fuel prices rise, drivers naturally look for ways to make their fuel last longer. One of the simplest things they can do is check their tyre pressures regularly.
Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe
4. Lighten your load
Empty the boot of anything you don’t need that day such as golf clubs, bikes, pushchairs etc as added weight increases fuel consumption.
5. Look to reduce drag
Things like roof boxes, ski carriers, bike racks and even open windows all create drag and will reduce your MPG. Your Honda has been designed to be aerodynamic so try to avoid anything that reduces it.
6. Don't overfill your tank
Driving around with a full tank of fuel is heavy (and expensive!), so if you don’t need it, don’t over fill it.
7. Check the traffic
Look at a real-time traffic flow such as Google Maps before you leave and decide which route is best – the eco (less fuel) or fastest? Whilst slow traffic can be a pain, your hybrid will love the slower speeds, maximising use of the electric motor, regen and increasing your MPG.
8. Update your satnav vehicle settings
Don’t forget to edit your vehicle type, choosing hybrid, when using Google Maps. Switching the settings (settings – trip options – your vehicles) will give you personalised route settings designed specifically for hybrids.
9. Choose ECON mode
This setting will automatically maximise your Honda’s efficiency by adjusting various elements, such as the air-conditioning and throttle responsiveness.
10. Read the road
Anticipating traffic, leaving enough space in front of you for the unexpected and naturally reducing your speed before a corner will reduce your need to brake and increase fuel efficiency.
11. Drive gently
Avoid sudden acceleration and braking to ensure your hybrid makes the most from the electric motor.
12. Maximise the benefits of regenerative braking
Embrace stop-start traffic which captures energy as you brake and feeds it back into your battery, adding up to 20% in range.
13. Reduce your speed
Cutting your speed, even by 10mph, can have a significant effect on fuel economy and going from 68mph to 50mph can reduce fuel consumption by 20%.
14. Monitor your driving
Watch your MPG and efficiency on the built-in Honda efficiency monitors to identify what increases / reduces your fuel usage.
Technology can help drivers keep track of their fuel efficiency and vehicles themselves are becoming more sophisticated at self-monitoring.
David Aldridge, RAC Business Services Director
15. Driving modes
Enjoy auto / hybrid drive mode on faster roads. Your Honda will automatically pick the most efficient driving mode when you select auto.
16. Switch off cruise control
Cruise control isn’t always an efficient way to maximise your fuel economy as on the up hills it can be heavy on the throttle to maintain your speed, so look at the road conditions before reaching for the button.
17. Switch off
Turning off things like the air con, heated seats, windscreen heaters etc can help with efficiency. According to the AA, using your air con can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%, so whilst recirculated air might not be as refreshing, it will save you money.
18. Enjoy the drive
Don’t chase a charger mid-journey. When you’re cruising at faster speeds the petrol engine is more efficient so don’t worry about stopping and charging your e:PHEV.
19. Charge your e:PHEV daily
Plug in your e:PHEV every day so its fully charged and ready for use – charging little and often is most efficient and best for the battery and with Honda e:PROGRESS you could charge your hybrid even more efficiently.
20. Book in for a service
Finally, keep your hybrid serviced, as per the recommended schedule. No one knows your car like your local Honda service department so book in to keep it running at its best.
These small changes can make a big difference to your fuel bill, so see how many you can achieve on your next journey. Don’t forget, the weather can affect your hybrid’s efficiency so expect your MPG to go down in colder weather or when the wind is against you and improve in the warmer months.
Fuel is expensive, but a few small changes in the way we prepare our vehicles and plan journeys can make a big difference in our vehicle’s fuel consumption. Remember that safety and fuel saving can be complementary if we drive effectively.
Richard Gladman, IAM RoadSmart’s Chief Examiner.
CR-V e:PHEV: A practical three-step routine
Let’s have a look at what motoring might look like for a typical CR-V e:PHEV owner.
CR-V Hybrid
- With weekday journeys normally being shorter for most drivers, aim to maximise your use of the electric mode on local trips, plugging in your hybrid each evening.
- When travelling further afield or on faster roads, select auto / hybrid and let the system automatically choose the most efficient drive mode dependent on your driving, leaving you to enjoy the drive.
- Don’t worry about looking for a charger mid-journey when cruising, the petrol engine is more efficient at speed, so instead wait till you reach your destination to charge.
