Motorhome tips: improving fuel economy
b5287af9-fb06-4ef4-b383-6aa27e387073
According to research from the IAM, vehicle excise duty changes that aim to reduce carbon dioxide emissions will have little impact unless drivers change, too.
As an example, the IAM says that even the most economical and environmentally-friendly vehicle can be poorly driven, negating any proposed reductions in tax. You can, however, save fuel easily by following this simple advice:
- Check your tyres. Twenty per cent under-inflation can mean an increase of around three per cent in fuel use
- Do you really need an icy cold blast? Air-conditioning can up fuel consumption by as much as ten per cent
- Calmer driving offers a possible fuel saving of around 15 per cent
- Take the bus or bike. In the first two miles you use up to 100 per cent more fuel than in subsequent miles
Specialist motorhome insurer, Caravan Guard, also offers some motorhome-specific advice:
- Save weight. Unless you’re driving across a desert, is there any need to carry a full tank of water? Leave the accessories you haven’t used in twelve months, at home.
- Take it easy. The most economical speed for most motorhomes is between 55mph and 60mph. Every 5mph over the optimum will result in a ten per cent loss in fuel economy.
- Cruise up hills in the correct gear, not necessarily the lowest. The most economical range of revs is between 2000rpm and 2250rpm
- Cruise control is economical for steady speeds on flat roads, not hills.
- Fill up at night. You get slightly more fuel for your money at lower temperatures. Or look for busy petrol stations during the day – fresh fuel is more efficient that the stuff that has been in the pumps for a while.
- Get your engine serviced regularly, so it’s working at it’s optimum.
- Stay closer to home and you could save money on your motorhome insurance, too, by lowering your annual mileage.
The other option is re-tuning or engine remapping. We recently discovered a company with experience in commercial vehicles, where even a saving of one per cent can make a dramatic difference in fuel costs.
Obviously, you will only achieve lower fuel consumption figures with re-tuning when you take it steady.
This article was originally published in MMM Octobert 2008 issue. If you've enjoyed it why not treat yourself to a copy of the magazine or order a subscription so you never miss an issue.
For more practical motorhoming advice, please read our other Get Practical articles.
Recent Updates
Campervan festivals: all you need to know
Get the lowdown on going to a festival with your campervan. We've got everything you need to know, from choosing the right festival to deciding what ...
Off-grid campervans: what you need to know
Ditching electric hook-up and wild camping in your campervan is a great, low-cost way to enjoy the outdoors ...
Where and how to sell my motorhome: the ultimate guide
Whatever your reason for selling, there are a number of steps to take to try to get the best price for your ...
Gas tanks or refillable cylinders: our guide to motorhome gas
From cooking dinner to the central heating, gas is an essential feature of motorhoming – here, we explore ...
Engine management lights: all you need to know
What is the engine management light? What does it mean, and what do I have to do? ...
Motorhome air suspension: all you need to know
Motorhomes are heavy and the additional weight of equipment and height of the bodywork can increase the loads ...
Motorhome WiFi: how to get better motorhome internet
Staying connected on the move is more and more essential, so relying on campsite WiFi isn't an option – here ...
A class of their own - our guide to A-class motorhomes
Thinking of trading up to an A-class, or even going straight to the top of the motorhome tree? We guide you ...
Explore overseas on a motorhome dream tour
Enjoy exotic travel in a campervan or motorhome by hiring, swapping with someone else or exporting your ...
Motorhome water systems: everything you need to know
On-board water is an important part of every motorhome – here’s everything you need to know ...
Other Articles
Campervanning in Europe: what you need to know
Whether you're planning a leisurely drive through the French countryside, navigating bustling city streets in Italy or winding your way around ...
Campervan security: all you need to know
With thefts on the increase, it’s important to know how to keep your campervan secure and prevent campervan ...
Campervan furniture: everything you need to know
Our campervan experts guide you through all the essentials for your campervan, including tables, chairs, ...
Campervan finance: how to fund your purchase
Here we look at the different types of campervan finance available, to help you decide what’s the best option ...
Britain’s best used motorhomes
Want a great motorhome without paying the premium for a new one? Here's a guide to the best you can get in ...
Which motorhome? Choosing the perfect motorhome for you
Choosing a motorhome or campervan is one of the biggest buying decisions you’ll ever make, so it's important ...
Campervan washroom essentials: stay fresh on the road
Our guide will take you through the campervan washroom essentials you'll need so you're well-prepared for ...
Dogs in campervans: all you need to know
Follow our advice and your dog will enjoy campervanning as much as you do ...
Electric campervans: all you need to know
Our guide will take you through everything you need to know about electric campervans and what the future ...
Motorhome electrics: a complete guide to your motorhome electrical set-up
Motorhome electrics can dramatically enhance the convenience and comfort of your vehicle – but they can be ...