Fuel-saving tips offered as motorists brace for possible price hikes
Industry and government experts say motorists can ease the pressure of rising fuel costs by taking practical steps, including remote work, careful trip planning and proper vehicle maintenance.
The Department of Minerals and Petroleum Resources says that with fuel costs on the brink of a sharp increase, motorists can look at practical ways to ease the pressure.
"One of the recommendations is to work from home, to reduce the demand and also to save on the costs," said spokesperson Robert Maake, who was part of a roundtable discussion hosted by the Fuels Industry Association on Wednesday.
The discussion comes amid growing concerns over possible fuel price hikes and supply disruptions linked to the global oil crisis, driven by the Middle East war.
The association convened the session in response to reports of panic buying and fuel rationing.
While April’s fuel price adjustments are only expected to be announced on Friday, the latest data suggests petrol prices could increase by at least R5 a litre.
The association's CEO Avhapfani Tshifularo said that they have not yet considered supply-curtailing measures like mandatory remote work.
"Primarily because the country remains fully supplied, we don't have a need to force that, but it's probably one of the options that individual employers can consider, just to make sure that they ease the pinch on their employees in terms of the cost of fuel," said Tshifularo.
Head of Fuel Taxes and Regulated Prices, Xoliswa Macingwane, also shared some practical fuel-saving tips:
- Maintain your vehicle: a well-maintained engine and properly inflated tires improve efficiency.
- Drive smoothly: avoid stop-start driving and reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle.
- Plan your trips: check traffic and road work to take the most efficient route.
- Reduce air conditioner use: it puts extra load on the engine.
- Use public transport when possible.
These measures, experts say, can help motorists stretch their fuel budgets while awaiting official price adjustments.
ALSO READ:
