Economy

MPG Myths — Common Misconceptions About Fuel Economy

Many common beliefs about fuel economy are wrong. Understanding the facts helps van drivers save real money without wasting effort on myths.

There are many widely repeated fuel-saving myths that do not stand up to scrutiny. Myth 1 — air conditioning always uses more fuel than opening windows. At motorway speeds, the drag from open windows actually increases fuel consumption more than running the AC. Myth 2 — warming up the engine before driving saves fuel. Modern engines need no warm-up idling; gentle driving warms them faster and uses less fuel. Myth 3 — premium fuel improves economy in standard vans. Unless your van specifies premium fuel, you are wasting money — standard fuel provides the same economy. Myth 4 — filling up in the morning gives you more fuel. Fuel is stored underground at a consistent temperature, so any expansion effect is negligible. Focus on real savings — tyre pressure, smooth driving, and reducing weight.