Anticipate: try not to lose momentum
Keeping the car moving at the right speed is essential to fuel economy. Obviously, this depends on traffic conditions and what’s happening on the road ahead, but slowing down and having to accelerate again naturally uses more fuel.
The best advice is to drive as smoothly as possible, gently using the steering, accelerator and brakes.
When slowing down, it’s important to remain in gear as the fuel cut-off switch in a fuel injection engine is then activated, meaning virtually no fuel is used while braking.
Try to anticipate what’s going to happen by looking well ahead. This enables the driver to see the traffic lights on red and ease back on the accelerator or slow down naturally and potentially keep moving as opposed to coming to a stop.
Driving up hills destroys fuel economy. When approaching a hill, try to accelerate a little, then ease off while driving up.
The extra momentum should be enough to minimise additional fuel consumption.