The ongoing tension in the Middle East has yet to come to an end, and while we wait for cooler heads to prevail, the fuel prices continue their upward trend. It’s not just the prices that we need to worry about, but the actual fuel supply itself. Good thing, Petron Corporation managed to purchase 2.48 million barrels of crude oil from Russia, allowing the company to have a fuel supply that will last until June 2026.
It’s an open secret that every motorist needs to save fuel during these uncertain times. As much as possible, motorists should maximize their trips and make the most out of every liter of diesel or gasoline in their car. Speaking of which, Ford Philippines shared practical fuel-saving tips that could come in handy. Here are the eight tips from the Blue Oval brand.
Fuel Efficiency Capabilities
Ford PH said that the Everest and Ranger are equipped with several technologies that are meant to improve fuel economy. These tech ranges from LED lighting systems to brushless motors and stop/start capabilities that help yield ideal fuel consumption. Ford added that the Everest and Ranger are fitted with advanced engines that deliver power only when needed, reducing unnecessary fuel consumption even in stop-and-go traffic.
Drive Sensibly
Be a sensible driver while being aware of surrounding traffic, as this can help in reducing fuel consumption. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, as this can consume more fuel compared to applying more controlled movements.
Of note, when descending or when coasting, shifting to neutral is ineffective, unsafe, and does not lessen fuel consumption. Ford said that you should stay on “Drive” and let the Everest or Ranger optimize gear selection. The Blue Oval brand added that engaging the “Eco” mode, keeping the Stop/Start function enabled, and using Cruise Control where suitable maximizes the vehicle’s capability to manage on-road performance to help maintain optimal fuel economy and a smoother drive.
Always Check Your Tires
It is recommended to check the tire pressure from time to time to ensure that it aligns with the manufacturer’s recommended pounds per square inch (PSI) levels. The PSI levels are typically indicated on a placard on the door jamb. Underinflated or worn tires force the vehicle to work harder to maintain speed, reducing fuel efficiency.
Weight is Your Enemy
The added load of accessories such as a bull bar, driving lights, roof racks, and others makes the engine work harder, as this translates to more weight. To manage this, consider removing accessories that aren’t essential for daily driving, and free up the rear storage compartments of unnecessary items.
Be Conscious of Aerodynamic Matters
Aerodynamics play a crucial role in achieving good fuel economy. As such, aftermarket accessories such as rooftop cargo boxes and LED light bars tend to negatively impact the vehicle’s aerodynamics. The said accessories may increase drag, requiring the vehicles to work harder and leading to higher fuel consumption.
Road Trip Tips in Hot Weather
Ford said that the Ranger and Everest come with an advanced climate control system that, when set to Auto mode, automatically adjusts output to meet cooling demands. This is handy as the summer season has already started. Ford added that this feature reduces compressor cycling and lowers engine load, thereby improving fuel efficiency.
When parking, shaded areas are ideal, as it helps maintain a lower cabin temperature and reduce the workload on the air conditioning system upon return. A quality sunshade may also help limit heat buildup.
Faster Isn’t Always Best
Part of driving sensibly is maintaining a steady speed, as it limits acceleration and braking, allowing your engine to have a more relaxed drive. As such, this can help improve fuel efficiency while ensuring a smoother, more controlled journey.
Maintenance is Key
Keeping your car in tip-top shape is one of the most important things in ensuring that it is in good running condition. Ford service experts conduct a comprehensive series of checks, identifying and remedying prevalent issues such as wheel misalignment, dirty air filters, and worn engine oil, which are factors that may cause the vehicle to operate in less-than-ideal condition and consume more fuel.
Ford PH offers Online Service Booking (OSB) so customers can easily set an appointment with their preferred service dealer, get an estimated price on the intended service, and avail of express service in just a few clicks.
Autocar’s Take
Fuel prices are continuing their upward trend, which is expected since the tension in the Middle East has yet to be resolved. This is why we should hope that cooler heads soon prevail so that the global oil crisis can start to neutralize. However, should the main players in the Middle East fiasco come to terms, the fuel prices would most likely not go down right away, as the market needs time to stabilize.
As such, motorists in the Philippines should conserve fuel as best as they can by optimizing every trip and by driving sensibly on the road. The fuel-saving tips shared by Ford Philippines are a great help in reminding motorists of how to make the most out of every liter of fuel.
