Drivers turn off car heating to help cut fuel consumption, says survey

One in six drivers (16%) turn off their car’s heating in an attempt to save on fuel costs, a new survey suggests.

The poll of 2,000 British drivers commissioned by Vitality Car Insurance indicated that not driving too fast is the most common method of trying to reduce fuel usage, with 55% doing so.

Other ways of cutting petrol and diesel bills include keeping tyres inflated to the correct level (51%), removing unnecessary items (29%) and keeping windows closed (22%).

There are conflicting opinions about whether switching off a car’s heating saves fuel.

The RAC says it does, so advises drivers to “dress for the weather even inside your car” if fuel efficiency is a big concern.

Vitality Car Insurance managing director Andrew Webb said: “Our research shows that Brits are prepared to do a wide range of things in order to save money, with some even going as far as turning off the heating in their car despite the cold snap.

“For those looking to save, reducing speed – where safe – is generally the most effective way to cut down on fuel consumption.

“By modifying your driving habits in order to save on fuel, in many cases you are actually being a safer driver.

“This could be used to reduce your car insurance premium.”

The survey was conducted by Opinium in October 2022.