How much fuel is too much?

Come on drivers, we’ve all been there: the dreaded fuel light coming on mid-way through a journey; ages away from your destination, and potentially miles away from the nearest petrol station. The panic setting in as you realise you could well be stranded without an operating vehicle in the middle of nowhere tonight. So how do we resolve this issue? Simple really; just keep plenty of fuel in your car at all times.

Or is it so simple?

A little known motoring phenomenon called “over-fuelling” is rapidly gaining momentum, and its dangers are becoming increasingly apparent too. Whilst it is probably preferable to carry around more fuel than necessary in your car, it is time to consider the pitfalls of over storing on petrol or diesel.

– Fuel is heavy. 80 litres of petrol is roughly equivalent to carrying an additional person weighing 60 kg. This added weight will take more energy for your car to haul around, meaning higher fuel consumption, and therefore fewer miles to the gallon.

– Fuel is expensive. The average person cannot afford to fill up their tank at every opportunity, and instead will only fill up as and when they need to in order to spread the cost of running a car throughout a longer period.

– It is not economical. Doesn’t it make more sense to just top up your fuel when you need to, and just as much as you will need to get from A to B?

In the end, it all comes down to the individual driver. Many drivers will prefer the added comfort of knowing that there is almost always enough fuel in the tank, meaning less arduous trips to the petrol station and extra peace of mind, whereas others are more than happy to pay as they go.

Which driver are you?

Safe driving from Britannia!

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