As fuel prices continue to rise, consumers and businesses in Canada are increasingly concerned. On August 24, 2023, data from the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) showed the average gasoline price nationwide at 166.8 cents per litre.
Several factors drive up gasoline prices, with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine being a major contributor. Additionally, OPEC’s recent decision to cut oil supply has further escalated costs.
With gasoline prices climbing, it’s crucial to maximize your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Unfortunately, Canadian cars aren’t the most fuel-efficient, ranking last in a 2017 survey. Although this ranking may have changed, improving fuel economy remains essential. This article by Best Car Lawyer explores why fuel efficiency matters, Canada’s efforts to enhance it, and practical tips to boost your car’s MPG while avoiding common mistakes.
What Is Fuel Efficiency and Why Does It Matter?
Understanding Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency, often called fuel economy, measures how far a vehicle can travel on a specific amount of fuel. In the US, it’s measured in miles per gallon (MPG), indicating the distance a vehicle can cover on one gallon of fuel. A higher MPG means greater efficiency.
In Canada, fuel efficiency is expressed in litres per 100 kilometres (L/100km), showing how much fuel is used to travel 100 kilometres. A higher L/100km value indicates lower efficiency.
Benefits of Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
Fuel-efficient cars offer numerous advantages, including:
Environmental Benefits
Fuel-efficient vehicles emit fewer pollutants because they burn less fuel. Car exhaust contains carbon dioxide and other harmful gases. Each gallon of fuel burned releases approximately 20 to 50 pounds of carbon dioxide. Driving a fuel-efficient car reduces these emissions, helping to combat climate change.
Economic Savings
Better fuel economy translates to significant savings on gas. Fewer refueling stops mean more money in your pocket. For example, a car that travels 15,000 miles annually with a fuel efficiency of 30 MPG and a fuel cost of $3.60 per gallon can save about $900 yearly compared to a car with 20 MPG. Over five years, this adds up to approximately $4,500 in savings. In Canada, highly efficient vehicles can save over $10,000 over their lifetime.
Energy Security
Despite being a major oil producer, Canada imports nearly half of its oil. Improving fuel efficiency can reduce dependence on foreign oil, enhancing national energy security. Efficient vehicles also buffer consumers and businesses from volatile global oil prices.
Canada’s Efforts to Improve Fuel Efficiency
Government Initiatives
Canada is actively working to improve fuel efficiency. In 2019, about 2 million new light-duty vehicles were sold with an average fuel consumption of 8.9 L/100km, higher than other major markets. To address this, Canada has implemented several measures:
Emission Standards
Canada’s Passenger Automobile and Light Truck Greenhouse Gas Emission Regulations mandate a five percent annual reduction in CO2 emissions for new light-duty vehicles from 2017 to 2025. These standards align with US EPA regulations and require stringent emission performance improvements, particularly for light trucks.
Incentive Programs
The federal government promotes zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) through incentive programs. The iMHZEV program offers up to $200,000 for medium-and heavy-duty ZEVs, while the iZEV program provides up to $5,000 for light-duty ZEVs. Provinces and territories also offer incentives for purchasing ZEVs, installing residential chargers, and covering shipping costs.
Awareness Campaigns
Education and awareness campaigns are crucial. Canada’s 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan emphasizes transitioning to ZEVs, adopting lower-carbon alternatives for medium-and heavy-duty vehicles, and using clean fuels.
Top 5 Factors That Reduce Your MPG
Understanding and mitigating factors that reduce MPG can help you save on fuel costs. Here are the top five factors that impact fuel efficiency:
- Neglected Vehicle Maintenance
Skipping routine maintenance can severely impact your vehicle’s performance. Key maintenance tasks include:
- Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel.
- Spark Plugs: Worn-out spark plugs cause misfires, leading to unburnt fuel and decreased fuel efficiency.
- Fuel Filters: Clogged filters limit fuel flow to the engine, reducing performance and efficiency.
- Oxygen Sensors: Defective sensors result in inaccurate air-fuel mixture readings, causing the engine to burn more fuel.
- Motor Oil: Old, thick oil increases friction, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency.
- Varied Terrain and Road Conditions
Driving on rough, mountainous terrain increases rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency.
- Adverse Weather Conditions
Cold weather increases aerodynamic drag and makes motor oil thicker, both of which reduce fuel economy. Winter blend fuels also contain less energy, further lowering MPG.
- Excessive Cargo Weight and Accessories
Carrying unnecessary weight and accessories makes the engine work harder, decreasing fuel efficiency.
- Poor Driving Habits
Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, significantly reduces fuel economy. Speeding also increases fuel consumption due to higher air and tire resistance.
Injured in a Traffic Accident? Best Car Lawyer Can Help
Several factors can negatively impact your car’s fuel economy. Heavy traffic and poor driving habits not only lower gas mileage but also put your safety at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in a traffic-related accident, Best Car Lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your legal situation and learn how we can assist you.
