What Makes a Car Fuel-Efficient? A Guide for Filipino Drivers

BYD Cars Philippines
July 17, 2025

As fuel prices continue to rise, finding fuel-efficient cars in the Philippines has become a top priority for many drivers. Whether you navigate the busy streets of Metro Manila or enjoy road trips through the countryside, improving your fuel efficiency can save you money and help protect the environment.

So, what makes a car fuel-efficient? This guide breaks it down for beginners and offers practical fuel efficiency tips you can use daily.

What is Fuel Efficiency?

Fuel efficiency measures how far your car travels using a certain amount of fuel. The better the fuel efficiency, the more kilometers you can drive per liter—saving you money and reducing harmful emissions.

However, it’s not just about the car itself. Your driving habits and maintenance practices also significantly affect fuel economy.

Key Factors That Make a Car Fuel-Efficient

There’s not one factor that causes a vehicle to become fuel-efficient; rather, different things work together. These aspects include:

  1. Engine Size and Transmission Type
  1. Aerodynamics and Body Shap

Cars with streamlined designs face less air resistance, making it easier for the engine to maintain speed with less effort.

Manufacturers use lightweight materials like aluminum and carbon fiber to help improve efficiency.

Low-rolling resistance tires also reduce energy loss and save power.

  1. Driving style

Your habits behind the wheel can either boost or hurt your fuel economy:

  • Avoid aggressive driving like sudden braking and speeding.

  • Maintain a steady speed and follow speed limits for better mileage.
  1. Regular Maintenance

Keeping your car in top shape ensures better fuel performance:

  • Replace dirty air filters and worn spark plugs.

  • Monitor for issues like malfunctioning oxygen sensors or clogged injectors (source).

Routine tune-ups not only save fuel but also extend your vehicle’s lifespan.

  1. Car type

Choosing the right car plays a massive role in fuel economy:

  • Electric vehicles in the Philippines (EVs) run purely on electricity, eliminating fuel costs and tailpipe emissions.
  • Hybrid cars in the Philippines use electric power at low speeds to save fuel.
Side-by-side comparison of BYD electric vehicle and traditional gas-powered car, showing fuel savings and carbon emission differences

Why You Should Switch to Electric Vehicles (EVs)

New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) like EVs, PHEVs, and HEVs offer outstanding fuel efficiency by minimizing fossil fuel use. Thanks to improvements in battery technology, modern EVs can travel impressive distances on a single charge.

Top EV Picks from BYD Cars Philippines:

  • BYD Atto 3: Features an advanced electric powertrain and Blade Battery for top-tier efficiency.
  • BYD eMAX 7: The family-friendly electric MPV packed with features and safety for trips of all types.

Switching to an EV has become more cost-effective because for the Philippines' EVIDA Law, and savings on fuel and maintenance will make it a viable consideration for your next vehicle.

Powering Up for a Fuel-Efficient Future

Combining smart driving habits, proper maintenance, and the right vehicle choice—like BYD’s electric vehicles—can lead to significant savings and environmental benefits.

Ready to embrace the future of driving?

Explore our latest models or visit the BYD Philippines website today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What makes a car more fuel-efficient?
Factors like engine size, aerodynamics, transmission type, driving habits, and maintenance contribute to better fuel efficiency.
Are hybrid cars better than regular cars for fuel efficiency?
Yes! Hybrid cars in the Philippines reduce fuel use by combining electric and gasoline power, especially in city traffic.
Is it worth switching to an electric vehicle (EV)?
Absolutely. Electric vehicles in the Philippines offer lower fuel costs, minimal maintenance, and help protect the environment.