Tips For Optimising Fuel Efficiency When Driving Rental Vans

You’ve just picked up your rental van from Pace Van Hire in London, loaded it with everything from boxes to bulky furniture, and set off on what you thought would be a straightforward journey. Hours later, you notice the fuel gauge dipping faster than expected, and the thought hits you—“Could I be driving more efficiently?” We get it. Whether you’re moving house, delivering goods, or on a long-term project, fuel costs can add up quickly. That’s why optimising fuel efficiency for vans isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

If you’d like advice tailored to your journey, give us a call on 020 3879 1008 or email info@pacevanhire.com—we’re here to help you drive smarter and save more.

Why Optimising Fuel Efficiency For Vans Matters

Fuel costs can be one of the most significant expenses when hiring a van. Whether you’re moving home, transporting goods, or embarking on a long-term project, every litre saved counts. By adopting fuel-efficient driving habits, you can reduce your carbon footprint, extend the life of your vehicle, and lower your costs.

Smart Driving Tips For Optimising Fuel Efficiency For Rental Vans

1. Drive Smoothly And Steadily

Aggressive driving—such as rapid acceleration, sharp braking, and speeding—can significantly reduce fuel efficiency. Instead, aim for smooth and steady driving:

• Accelerate gently: Gradually press the accelerator to avoid sudden fuel consumption spikes.
• Brake early: Anticipate stops and slow down gradually to reduce the need for hard braking.
• Maintain a consistent speed: Use cruise control on highways to keep a steady pace and improve fuel economy.

By driving smoothly, you can enhance fuel efficiency and reduce wear and tear on the vehicle.

2. Plan Your Routes Wisely

Time spent idling in traffic or taking longer routes can waste fuel. To optimise fuel efficiency:

• Avoid congested areas: Use real-time traffic apps to find the quickest routes.
• Combine trips: Plan errands to minimise back-and-forth driving.
• Use GPS navigation: Modern GPS systems can help you avoid traffic jams and find the most efficient paths.

Smart route planning can save you time, money, and fuel.

3. Reduce Excess Weight And Drag

The more weight your van carries, the harder the engine has to work, leading to higher fuel consumption. To reduce weight:

• Remove unnecessary items: Clear out tools, equipment, or personal belongings you don’t need for the trip.
• Use lightweight equipment: Select materials and tools that are lighter to reduce the overall weight.
• Remove roof racks: If not in use, taking off roof racks can reduce aerodynamic drag and improve fuel efficiency.

Every kilogram counts when it comes to fuel economy.

4. Maintain Your Vehicle Regularly

A well-maintained van runs more efficiently. Ensure regular maintenance by:

• Checking tyre pressure: Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption.
• Replacing air filters: Clogged air filters can reduce engine efficiency.
• Changing oil regularly: Fresh oil reduces friction, helping the engine run smoothly.

Regular maintenance keeps your van running at its best and optimises fuel efficiency.

5. Limit Idling Time

Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. To minimise idling:

• Turn off the engine: If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart when ready to move.
• Use air conditioning wisely: Use A/C sparingly, as it can increase fuel consumption.

Reducing idling time is a simple way to save fuel.

6. Choose The Right Van For Your Needs

At Pace Van Hire, we offer a range of vans to suit different requirements. Selecting the appropriate van can impact fuel efficiency:

• Small vans: Ideal for light loads and city driving.
• Long-wheelbase vans: Suitable for larger loads, but may consume more fuel.
• Luton vans: Great for moving homes, but ensure you’re not carrying unnecessary weight.

Choose the van that best fits your needs to optimise fuel efficiency.

Conclusion

Optimising fuel efficiency for vans is not just about saving money—it’s about making your journey more efficient and environmentally friendly.

By adopting smooth driving habits, planning your routes, reducing weight, maintaining your vehicle, limiting idling, and choosing the right van, you can make a significant difference.

If you need assistance selecting the right van or have questions about fuel-efficient driving, don’t hesitate to reach out. Call us on 020 3879 1008 or email info@pacevanhire.com.

We’re here to help you drive smarter and save more.

FAQs

Q1: How can I improve fuel efficiency when driving a van?

A: Drive smoothly, plan efficient routes, reduce weight, maintain your vehicle, limit idling, and choose the right van for your needs.

Q2: Does tyre pressure affect fuel economy?

A: Yes, under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, leading to higher fuel consumption.

Q3: How often should I maintain my rental van?

A: Regular maintenance, including checking tyre pressure and changing oil, ensures optimal fuel efficiency.

Q4: Can I save fuel by removing roof racks?

A: Yes, removing roof racks reduces aerodynamic drag and improves fuel efficiency.

Q5: Does air conditioning impact fuel efficiency?

A: Yes, using air conditioning increases fuel consumption. Use it sparingly to save fuel.

Q6: How does tyre pressure affect fuel efficiency in vans?

Maintaining the correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance, improving fuel efficiency and ensuring safer handling. Check pressures before each trip.

Q7: Can route planning really save fuel when driving rental vans?

Yes. Choosing the most direct or least congested routes helps avoid stop-start traffic, reducing fuel consumption and wear on your van.

Q8: Do roof racks or added accessories impact fuel consumption?

Yes. Extra weight and aerodynamic drag from roof racks or cargo boxes can decrease fuel efficiency. Remove unnecessary accessories when possible.