Excess weight in vehicles can negatively affect fuel efficiency, increasing costs and environmental impact. Each additional 100 kilograms can raise fuel consumption by up to 0.3 liters per 100 kilometers, especially noticeable during long trips. Removing unnecessary items, like a full-size spare tire, can help; a tire repair kit is a lighter and space-saving alternative. Roof boxes also significantly increase fuel usage, particularly at higher speeds. Additionally, snow and ice must be cleared from cars in winter to maintain safety and efficiency.
Tips for Fuel Efficiency
Carrying excess weight can significantly impact your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, leading to higher fuel expenses and a greater environmental footprint. Research indicates that for every additional 100 kilograms in your vehicle, fuel consumption can increase by up to 0.3 liters per 100 kilometers. While this may not seem substantial at first, the effects amplify during long-distance travel. Therefore, it’s advisable to routinely declutter your vehicle to eliminate unnecessary weight.
A frequently overlooked contributor to added weight is the full-size spare tire kept in the trunk, which can weigh around 20 kilograms. A smart alternative that helps reduce weight is a tire repair kit equipped with sealant and a compressor. Matthias Brügge from Auto Bild recommends this solution. Switching to a repair kit not only lightens your load but also frees up space in your trunk without sacrificing safety in the event of a tire failure.
The Impact of Roof Boxes on Fuel Consumption
One of the largest culprits of increased fuel consumption is a roof box. At speeds of 80 km/h, fuel usage can rise by approximately 11 percent, and at 130 km/h, it could add up to 2 liters per 100 kilometers, as reported by experts. If you’ve finished using the roof box, it’s wise to remove it promptly to avoid unnecessary fuel waste.
Ice and Snow Removal: A Must in Winter
Essential Tips for Winter Car Care
Snow and ice accumulation on your vehicle can hinder aerodynamics, increase weight, and elevate fuel consumption. Before hitting the road, ensure you thoroughly clear off any snow and ice from your car. This not only enhances visibility but also promotes safety on the road, preventing hazards that may endanger other drivers from falling ice or snow.
Best Ice Scrapers for Winter: A Comparison of Top Models
Top Ice Scrapers Reviewed (10 Models)
Our Top Pick
Value Option
Battery-Powered
Compact and Efficient
Best with Broom Feature
Durable Plastic
Soft Foam
Sturdy Plastic
Mixed Plastic
Hybrid Plastic
Flexible Foam
Versatile Foam
Efficient Plastic
Flexible Foam
Sturdy Plastic
Robust Plastic
Heavy-Duty Plastic
Tough Plastic
Solid Plastic
Quality Brass
Resilient Plastic
Reinforced Plastic
High-Quality Plastic
Sturdy Plastic
10 cm
10 cm
10 cm
9 cm
12 cm
9 cm
9 cm
9.5 cm
8.5 cm
11.5 cm
15 cm
12 cm
–
13 cm
25 cm
13 cm
12 cm
10 cm
26 cm
Includes Ice Breaker, Modular Handle, Squeegee, Hanging Loop
Features Ice Breaker, Hanging Loop
Replaceable Blade Included
Comes with Ice Breaker, Hanging Loop
Equipped with Ice Breaker, Squeegee, Hanging Loop
Includes Ice Breaker, Hanging Loop