The UK is set for another heatwave this week, with temperatures expected to reach 34-35C in some areas
Save fuel with the 45mph air-con rule this summer(Image: Getty )
Motorists are being advised to observe a particular guideline this week while travelling as the UK braces for another period of 30C temperatures. According to the Met Office, the third heatwave of the year is expected to bring an extended spell of hot, dry conditions.
Weather patterns are predicted to be less humid than during June’s heatwave, with lower peak temperatures and fewer exceptionally warm nights. Temperatures are forecast to rise into the low 30s Celsius across much of southern England from the beginning of the week, with some areas potentially reaching 34-35C later in the week.
Met Office Deputy Chief Forecaster Steven Keates stated: “Parts of the UK are entering heatwave conditions: the third heatwave in the UK so far this year. However, unlike the May and June heatwaves, we are not expecting this heatwave to be record-breaking.”
The warm conditions mean individuals will need to take safety precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses and other dangers, such as applying suncream, staying hydrated and remaining in shaded areas. For motorists, there are supplementary guidelines to observe, not only to remain cool for their own wellbeing, but also to conserve fuel.
Mike Fazal, motoring expert and CEO of Leasing.com says drivers can save fuel with the ’45mph air-con rule’ this summer. With the third heatwave of the year approaching, numerous motorists will be seeking methods to keep cool behind the wheel, reports the Express.
While car air conditioning may seem an obvious remedy, understanding when to use it could genuinely help conserve fuel. Fazal explains: “A simple rule drivers can follow is the 45mph rule.
“Below that speed, it’s usually more fuel efficient to open your windows and let air flow through the cabin. Once travelling faster than around 45mph, especially on dual carriageways or motorways, open windows create aerodynamic drag that makes the engine work harder.
“At that point, using the air conditioning can actually become the more fuel-efficient choice.” Studies indicate that air conditioning can raise fuel consumption by approximately 10%, while driving with windows open at higher speeds can push fuel use up by as much as 20%.
Another crucial factor motorists should bear in mind when getting behind the wheel during summer is their choice of footwear. Warmer weather frequently leads drivers to swap their regular shoes for flip-flops, clogs or Crocs, yet not all summer footwear is appropriate for driving.
Anything that slides off effortlessly or reduces your ability to feel the pedals could compromise your control of the vehicle. Fazal says: “Drivers need to be in full control of their vehicle at all times.
“If your footwear slips, becomes caught or makes it harder to operate the pedals safely, it could contribute to a careless driving offence. While flip-flops and Crocs might be comfortable in hot weather, they’re not the best choice behind the wheel. Over summer try keeping a pair of trainers in the car and changing into them before setting off.”
Careless driving convictions can carry between three and six penalty points along with fines of as much as £5,000, while more serious instances may attract five to nine penalty points, a driving ban and, in the most extreme cases, unlimited financial penalties.
