'Best effort': Drivers urged to use hypermiling shoe trick to save on record fuel costs
MOTORISTS are being urged to wear the correct footwear when driving as this hypermiling method could help them save money on fuel.
Hypermiling: Experts offer advice on saving petrol
Drivers have been using hypermiling techniques to help improve their fuel efficiency and save money at a time when petrol and diesel prices are breaking records. According to RAC Fuel Watch, the average price of a litre of unleaded petrol is 183.16p, while diesel drivers will have to fork out 188.82p a litre.
With thousands now taking steps to boost their fuel economy and reduce their bills, drivers are experimenting with the best methods for them.
One of the more obscure hypermiling techniques involves wearing sensible shoes when driving.
Wearing bigger shoes takes away the sensitivity needed with the throttle.
The best way to hypermile is to feel how the car is responding to the pressure from the driver.
READ MORE: Drivers urged to use hypermiling 'tricks' to increase fuel efficiency
Nick Zapolski, founder of ChooseMyCar.com, advised drivers to try different fuel saving tips to put off visiting the petrol station as much.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, he said: “The cost of living is already so high, but fuel prices are absolutely staggering.
“It’s going to force some people to stop using their vehicles, which sadly isn’t practical for many.
“We already know that more than 50 percent of people are using 'Hypermiling' techniques in order to be more economical.
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“But despite their best efforts, our recent studies show that the impact on Brit drivers of fuel costs is already severe.
“How much more can people afford to pay?
“While prices continue to rise, all we can recommend is that people follow tips to drive economically.”
Hypermiling can improve efficiency by around 40 percent, with some experts estimating that it could be as high as 70 percent in a newer car.
By using hypermiling techniques, some road users have seen their miles per gallon increase by between 35 and 40 percent.
Drivers have been warned of this method, however, as the Highway Code tells drivers to ensure their clothing and footwear do not prevent them from using the controls in the correct manner.
Some flimsy shoes like flip flops or sandals could see drivers' feet slipping off the pedals.
On the other hand, heavier shoes like boots could cause drivers to incorrectly judge how much throttle is needed, potentially wasting fuel.
The RAC advises drivers not to have a sole thicker than 10mm, also suggesting that the sole not be too thin or soft.
The footwear should be able to provide enough grip to stop the feet from slipping off the pedals.
Larger shoes can also result in slow ankle movements, reduced reaction time, and if they are too wide, could result in two pedals being pressed down at once accidentally.
Other popular hypermiling tips include removing excess weight, ensuring tyre pressure is correct and keeping the air conditioning off.