How to Beat the Fuel Price Pinch: 10 Smart Ways to Save Fuel

Fuel prices in South Africa rise and fall like a seesaw—but lately, they’ve felt like they’re only going up. For many drivers and businesses, each trip to the pump feels more like a gamble than a routine stop. But what if there were ways to take back control—mileage by mileage, litre by litre?

At MTM Fleet Tech, we believe every journey should count—and that starts with smarter, more fuel-efficient driving. In this guide, we’ll show you 10 effective ways to cut fuel costs, plus how MTM Fleet Tech’s intelligent tools can help you stretch every drop.

Let’s hit the road.

1. Drive Smart, Drive Light

Every time you press that accelerator, you’re making a choice. Fast starts, hard brakes, and sudden lane changes might feel thrilling—but they’re burning holes in your fuel budget. Smooth, steady driving isn't just safer—it’s cheaper.

Stay in the sweet spot: between 65–90 km/h, and keep your RPM below 3,000 when you can. Like a seasoned driver on an open road, let your rhythm find efficiency.

2. Keep Your Tyres in Check

Think of tyres like shoes. When they’re not pumped properly, the ride gets rough—and your engine works harder just to keep you moving.

Underinflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. That’s a hefty price to pay for skipping a pressure check. Make it a habit to check your tyre pressure once a month. Your wallet will thank you.

3. Use Your Gears and Gravity

Imagine driving downhill and lifting your foot off the pedal—the car slows naturally. That’s engine braking, and it’s a silent fuel saver. Combine this with timely gear changes and driving in higher gears (when possible), and your engine won’t have to overwork itself.

Smart driving isn’t always about speed—it’s about synergy between machine and mindset.

4. Choose a Fuel-Conscious Car

If you're car shopping, don’t just fall for the looks. Pay attention to the engine size, weight, and fuel rating. A beautiful car that guzzles petrol may not feel so pretty at the pump.

Whether it's a hybrid, a compact car, or a diesel-efficient model, choosing the right vehicle could mean thousands saved each year.

5. Don’t Let Your Windows Burn Your Fuel

We get it—the breeze feels good. But at speeds above 80 km/h, open windows turn your car into a wind sail, increasing drag and fuel usage. At highway speeds, it’s better to keep the windows up and use your A/C wisely.

It’s the little habits that make a big difference.

6. Declutter Your Boot and Drop the Roof Rack

Imagine hiking with a heavy backpack—your body tires faster, right? Your car works the same way.

The more unnecessary weight you carry—old tools, unused gear, luggage—the more fuel you burn. Remove roof racks when they’re not in use. Every kilo counts.

7. Choose the Right Fuel for Your Engine

South African fuel stations typically offer Octane 93, Octane 95, and diesel. While it might be tempting to always go with the cheapest, using the wrong octane can hurt your engine’s performance over time—and that means more fuel burned and more breakdowns.

Read your manual, ask your mechanic, and fuel up right the first time.

8. Let Cruise Control Do the Work

Think of cruise control as your personal fuel guardian. It keeps your speed steady—no more surges, no more dips—and that means better fuel economy, especially on long drives.

Just set it and relax (but not too much—you’re still the driver!).

9. Max Out Loyalty Rewards

Fuel rewards programs are the low-hanging fruit of fuel savings. Whether it's a bank partnership, retail promo, or petrol station app—if you're not collecting points, you're leaving money on the table.

Stack your savings over time and watch your costs shrink.

10. Plan Like a Pro

Every unnecessary trip is another tank wasted. Combine errands, avoid traffic where you can, and consider lift clubs or shared drives when possible. You’ll reduce not only your fuel use but your stress too.

Three errands in one trip? That’s not just productive—it’s efficient living.

How MTM Fleet Tech Turns Your Driving Data Into Daily Savings

Saving fuel isn’t just about driving better—it’s about knowing better. That’s where MTM Fleet Tech comes in.

Our platform offers real-time tracking, behaviour insights, and performance reports that empower drivers and fleet managers alike to drive smarter, cheaper, and cleaner.

With MTM Fleet Tech, you can:

• 📉 Spot Fuel Drains: Our app identifies harsh braking, idling time, speeding, and other habits that secretly waste fuel.

• 🧭 Plan Efficient Routes: View trip history, avoid traffic traps, and discover faster, fuel-saving routes.

• ⚙️ Track Vehicle Health: Get alerts on tyre pressure, maintenance needs, and diagnostics that impact fuel economy.

• 🚦 Coach Better Drivers: Use our reports to guide your team toward cost-saving driving techniques.

Think of it as your fleet’s co-pilot—silent, smart, and always on your side.

The Road to Fuel Savings Starts Now

Fuel prices may be unpredictable—but your fuel strategy doesn’t have to be. By applying these simple habits and using MTM Fleet Tech’s smart technology, you can drive confidently into a future where every kilometre counts—and every drop of fuel works harder for you.

🚘 Ready to save more on the road?
👉 Contact MTM Fleet Tech today and take the first step toward smarter, more cost-effective driving.