06 March 2024

Counting the cost at the pumps

Fuel is one of the biggest ongoing costs for van owner-drivers. Here are practical ways to track prices and improve real-world mpg to protect your bottom line.

Fuel pump nozzles at a filling station

Diesel prices have swung wildly in recent years, peaking around £2/litre in 2022.

One of the biggest costs for van owners and drivers is the price of fuel. Whether you run a diesel or petrol van, there are tools to help you find the cheapest fuel locally, and simple habits that make a noticeable difference to consumption.

Track pump prices

Use price-monitoring sites such as PetrolPrices to see live costs near you and plan where to fill up.

Official vs real-world mpg

“Official” fuel consumption figures are measured under strict test conditions and may not reflect your everyday driving. You can check the published figures on the government site: gov.uk/co2-and-vehicle-tax-tools.

For a truer picture, brim the tank, drive as normal, brim again, then calculate mpg from the fuel used and miles covered—or use an online calculator such as Which? fuel calculator.

Close-up of a vehicle fuel gauge showing near empty Measure real-world mpg over a few fill-ups for accuracy.

Reduce your fuel consumption

Plan smarter journeys: Combine trips and avoid heavy congestion where possible. If you must drive in city centres, modern eco stop/start systems help reduce idling. See our guide to Driving in Central London.
Check tyre pressures often: Under-inflation increases rolling resistance; over-inflation accelerates wear. Keep tracking/alignment in check too.
Adopt a smooth driving style: Hard acceleration and late braking burn fuel. Transport figures suggest ~9% more fuel at 70mph than 60mph, ~15% more than 50mph; 80mph can use ~25% more than 70mph.
Remove roof racks when not in use: An empty rack can add ~10% to consumption by spoiling aerodynamics.
De-clutter the load area: Unnecessary weight = unnecessary fuel use.
Consider deliveries: For household shopping, supermarket delivery can work out cheaper than using your van.

Checking tyre pressure with a gauge Correct pressures and alignment pay for themselves in fuel saved and slower tyre wear.

If you’ve got a great fuel-saving tip we’ve missed, email it to us and we’ll add it to this page.

Information courtesy of Maun Motors.

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Counting the cost at the pumps

Track pump prices

Official vs real-world mpg

Reduce your fuel consumption

DPFs What Drivers Need to Know About Diesel Particulate Filters

Driving in Central London

Built-in Racking and Shelving

Plywood Lining Your Van

Air Conditioning in Vans & Commercial Vehicles

Buying a Van with High Mileage

Branding Your Van

Steve's Dream Machine

Financial Conduct Authority

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