Gas prices in Toronto hit record levels on Saturday, after a two-cent jump overnight to 141.9 cents per litre at most gas stations across the GTA.
Fears that unrest in Iraq could affect global oil supplies have sent gas prices skyrocketing, gas price expert Dan McTeague told CTV News. If the situation in the Middle East stabilizes, McTeauge says gas prices will either remain stable or trickle down.
In the meantime, here are a few tips on how to save money at the pump and keep fuel consumption low.
Slow down
Aerodynamic drag increases the faster you drive, so try to stay at approximately 100 km per hour when driving on the highway. This can reduce fuel consumption by about 15 per cent.
Avoid carrying items on your roof
Hauling large items on your roof can also increase aerodynamic drag and lower fuel economy. If you’re not carrying anything in your external cargo container, remove it from your car.
Drive smoothly
Try to avoid hard acceleration and quick braking whenever possible. The harder you accelerate, the more fuel your car consumes. And every time you hit the brakes, you waste fuel. Driving at a consistent pace can reduce fuel consumption by about a third.
Use cruise control
Using cruise control on the highway can help you stay at a consistent speed.
Clean out your car
Avoid keeping unnecessary items in your car. Every 100 pounds of extra items taking up space in your backseat or trunk can result in a one-to two-per-cent decrease in fuel efficiency.
Keep your tires inflated
Keep your tires properly inflated at a level recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
Avoid idling
If your vehicle is parked and you’re not anticipating going anywhere for more than a minute, turn off your engine.
