Like millions of motorists around the country, ‘Tol recognizes the need for fuel efficiency. Mike has picked up a few of his favorite top gas saving tips:

1. Avoid ‘em gas guzzlers. You know what we’re talking about – SUVs that prowl city streets and eat up gas faster than you can refill the tank. Motorists are generally aware of which vehicles (whether old or new) are prone to consume a lot of gas. Still, car owners and first-time car buyers are advised to check out car magazines and motoring websites to find a vehicle with the best balance of performance needs and fuel economy. Also, keep in mind that just because a car comes cheap doesn’t mean it won’t drain your wallet come gas time.

2. Forget the need for speed. One of the simplest and easiest ways to save gas is by slowing down. Your fuel economy drops drastically the faster you go, so try to keep within the speed limit for longer gas life—and with Manila traffic, you’re bound to drive slow most of the time anyway. Save gas and drive safe!

3. Lose the excess luggage. Having too much weight can take its toll on a car’s fuel efficiency, not to mention wear and tear. As most drivers are prone to turning their cars into mobile apartments, it is easy for miscellaneous stuff to pile up in your car. By keeping your cars neat and free of unnecessary clutter, you’d be surprised how it can help stretch your gas budget and add just a little bit more speed.

4. Check your tires. Regularly check your tire pressure. Tires that do not have the right amount of pressure will have more rolling resistance, which means that your car needs to exert more effort to keep moving—which means more gas spent. The kind of tires you have can also make a difference on fuel economy. Wider, “pimped up” tires usually increases rolling resistance and can drain your gas tank.

5. Go easy on the revving. Be mindful of how much you accelerate, and how much of it you need. Those few moments of speed, capped off by a sudden stop is one of the top fuel-wasting habits of drivers, and has courted one too many accidents on the road. M/T drivers will find it wise to shift early, as this can save gas. Remember, you’re NOT a race car driver.

6. Go “air cool”. This is one of the easiest ways to save gas — turn off the A/C and let good the ol’ wind cool us down. Of course, this might not be the most pleasurable of experiences when driving amid Metro Manila pollution. But if you’re looking to save fuel, this is one of the best ways to go. Better to keep this tip in mind when driving through the slightly cleaner air outside the metropolis.

7. Ride a bike. Or take the bus, train, jeep—or better yet, walk! One of the most no-brainer ways to save on gas is to avoid driving altogether. Not to say that you should now junk your personal car, but you can from time to time use alternative means of transport. By commuting or car pooling, you not only save money and fuel, but you also help unclog our congested streets and lessen air pollution. And by walking or biking, you can get healthier too!

Hope you enjoyed Mike’s top 7 gas saving tips. Stay tuned for more helpful tips from best friend Mike!