Page 42 - Fleet

Company Car Drivers Bulletin 2022 – Edition Three

Summer Driving Tips

Have you ever wondered which uses less fuel, using air con or having the windows open? The answer

depends on the speed you are driving. If you are doing under 40mph, having your windows open uses less
fuel. If you are over 40mph, your windows should be closed and the air con on. The aerodynamic drag of the
car increases when the windows are open, meaning the engine has to work harder to move the car

Do you know what the Air Recirculation button actually does? It closes the external air vents and
keep the internal air flowing around the car. In hot weather, if this is not switched on, the air con
system has to work hard (burning fuel) to cool hot air. Ideally, have your windows open at the start of

the journey, if you are under 40 mph and then when you go on faster roads, close the windows, turn
the air con and air recirc on. This will burn a lot less fuel when cooling the car

A dirty windscreen, combined with the glare from the sun, greatly increases the risk of an incident.

Check your screenwash level regularly so you can keep the view ahead clear

Driving with hayfever If you drive with untreated hayfever, it can affect your driving in a similar way

to consuming 2 glasses of wine. A sneeze can mean not watching the road for 100 metres. Please
take suitable precautions before driving if you suffer from hayfever. This may involve taking
medication to reduce the symptoms or not driving at all

The risk of tyre punctures/blowouts increases in the summer, especially if you have existing

damage to the sidewall of the tyres. The increased heat can cause the tyre to weaken so please
check your tyres regularly and if you do see damage, get them inspected at your local tyre centre.

Stay hydrated, driving with dehydrated has similar effects to consuming alcohol. Plan your
journeys so you can hydrate beforehand and plan a break after every 2 hours of driving