Beat the heat: Your guide to better summer mileage

Over recent weeks, the UK has seen some record high temperatures and even red weather warnings for extreme heat, which has made navigating daily life – including driving – more challenging.

But it’s not just physical wellbeing that the heat is taking its toll on, it may also be leaving drivers out of pocket.

Here’s how you can save money and preserve the life of your tyres this summer…

Release any trapped heat before turning on your AC

Air conditioning is the biggest culprit of fuel consumption in the heat. It is tempting to turn the cold air up to the max after getting into a car that has been sitting in direct sunlight. However, the bigger the temperature difference between the vehicle cabin and the outside, the harder the engine has to work to keep the air cold. This can increase fuel consumption by up to 25%.

That’s not to say that winding down the windows is the better alternative. When travelling at high speeds (over 50mph), driving with the windows open can cause air resistance, which the engine, and the tyres, then have to push through. This uses up more fuel and puts a strain on your tyres.

The solution? Release the heat before you turn on the AC. When you start up the vehicle and you’re travelling at slower speeds, wind all of the windows down for a couple of minutes to cool the cabin down a little. This stops the AC from having to work so hard, preserving fuel consumption.

Drive smoothly to prevent tyre damage

It’s important to remember that while the surrounding air might feel hot, the temperature in the tarmac is even hotter – sometimes more than 20℃ higher. This can soften the rubber as the tyre travels along it, so any aggressive driving, such as high speed cornering or hard braking, can accelerate tread wear. Gradual acceleration and braking can not only help reduce strain on your tyres, but it also helps with fuel efficiency.

Don’t neglect your tyre pressures

Driving on underinflated tyres in the heat can increase rolling resistance and create even more heat build up, which can lead to a complete tyre blowout. To protect your pounds and your tyres, make sure you check your tyre pressure levels in the morning before driving, when the tyres are cold. This will give you the most accurate reading and ensure they are inflated to the correct recommended levels. For more advice on this, check out our dedicated guide on caring for tyres during a heatwave.

Use summer tyres

To ensure optimal fuel efficiency when it comes to your tyres, make sure you are driving on summer tyres. They are specifically designed for the season to adapt to wet and dry roads as well as hotter temperatures. Davanti has an extensive summer tyre range suitable for both commercial and passenger car vehicles, from everyday driving to hobbyist adventures.
Or for more advice, contact your local Davanti dealer – we have hundreds across the country ready to equip you for the road ahead.