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:
- Engine Size and Transmission Type
- Smaller engines usually consume less fuel because they require less energy to operate.
- Turbocharged and direct-injection engines allow smaller engines to deliver big performance without sacrificing efficiency (source).
- Transmission types matter too:
- Manual transmissions offer control but require skillful shifting.
- Automatic transmissions with continuously variable transmissions (CVT) or dual-clutch transmissions (DCT) adjust seamlessly to driving conditions for better fuel economy (source).
- Manual transmissions offer control but require skillful shifting.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Car type
Choosing the right car plays a massive role in fuel economy:
- Hybrid cars in the Philippines use electric power at low speeds to save fuel.
Electric vehicles in the Philippines (EVs) run purely on electricity, eliminating fuel costs and tailpipe emissions.
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 Picks from BYD Philippines:
- BYD Atto 3: Features an advanced 8-in-1 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 might have a higher upfront cost, but the savings on fuel and maintenance will make it worth it in the long run.
Powering Up for a Fuel-Efficient Future
Combining smart driving habits, proper maintenance, and the right vehicle choice—like BYD’s electric vehiclesmodels—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!
