8 top tips to improve van fuel economy

Eight simple ways to make your van go those extra miles

With UK petrol and diesel prices hitting an extortionate high in 2022, filling your van's fuel tank was (and probably still is) a painful experience.

But what can you do to cut your fuel costs?

We're all trying to save money where we can as a result of the cost of living crisis and the ever-increasing prices.

Picking a more fuel-efficient van may seem like an obvious option, but there are plenty of tips and tricks that could have a significant effect on how far you can go on one tank (or battery).

Even if you've gone electric, there are still ways to eke out that extra mile and keep your hard-earned cash where it belongs – in your wallet.

Ranging from driving techniques, journey planning and vehicle upkeep, the following tips could have a significant effect on the time you spend at the fuel pump.

Reduce your load

Have you got a habit of keeping everything and anything in your van?

Clear out all that extra clutter. If there's less weight in your van, your engine (or electric motor) doesn't have to work as hard and will therefore use less fuel or battery power.

Think regularly about what you really need to take with you, and if there's something sitting in the cargo space that's not going to be needed, then get rid of it.

Reconsider your roof rack

Don't forget about the outside of your van.

Add-ons such as a roof rack will increase wind resistance and increase your fuel consumption or battery drain.

Your van's engine or electric motor will have to work much harder which uses more fuel or power, so it's worth assessing whether you really need one.

Keep your tyres properly inflated

Tyres that are underinflated generate more friction and have a higher rolling resistance on the road.

This means your engine or electric motor has to work harder, using more fuel or battery power.

Ensure you check your van's manual for the correct tyre pressure and be careful not to overinflate your tyres, as this could lead to further issues, such as a burst tyre.

Keep your van maintained

Keep your van in good condition and ensure it's regularly serviced to keep it running efficiently.

If your van is poorly maintained, different parts could create friction and make it harder for your engine or electric motor to work smoothly.

For diesel and petrol vans, you should also make sure you change your engine oils to keep things running effortlessly. Electric vans need less maintenance, but regular checks of tyres, brakes and software updates are still important.

If you have a van lease, it might be worth adding a maintenance package to your lease agreement to give you peace of mind.

Use your heater and air-con wisely

Try to avoid excessive use of your air-conditioning and your heater, and only use them when you really need to.

They put a strain on the engine or electric motor, burning more fuel and draining the battery faster.

The cabins of electric vans can often be preconditioned while plugged in and charging.

Meaning you can start your journey at a comfortable temperature, without using battery power.

Plan your journeys

Planning your journey means you can take the most efficient route to your destination, saving time, fuel and battery charge.

A sat nav can direct you away from routes with congestion and delays.

Your engine is most fuel-efficient when it's warmed up and been on for a while, so several cold starts could increase your fuel consumption.

So, if you're planning on making several trips in one day, combine them all into one big round trip.

As for electric vans, you'll get better efficiency on longer journeys where the motor reaches optimal operating temperature.

Avoid unnecessary idling

Keeping your van running while you're stopped will get you, well, zero miles per gallon or miles per charge.

So, if you're waiting for someone for a few minutes, turn off your van to stop it consuming a lot of fuel or battery power.

Drive and brake as smoothly as possible

Accelerate steadily and avoid braking aggressively.

Slamming on your brakes won’t do your fuel economy, or battery efficiency, any good. And the harder your acceleration, the more fuel or battery power your van will consume.

Electric vans can benefit from regenerative braking, which recovers energy when you brake gently, but harsh braking wastes this opportunity.

Making every mile count for your business

Whether you're running a single van or managing a fleet, these fuel-saving techniques can make a substantial difference to your bottom line over the course of a year.

Small changes in driving habits and regular maintenance can lead to significant cost savings for your business – money that can be reinvested into growing your operations.

For businesses looking to maximise efficiency even further, consider whether a more fuel-efficient van or even an electric van lease could deliver even greater long-term savings.

FAQs on van fuel economy

What is the most fuel-efficient speed for a van?

There isn’t one single speed that guarantees the best fuel economy for all vans, but generally speaking, most vehicles are at their most efficient between 45–50mph.

Is 56mph really the most fuel-efficient speed?

You might’ve heard that 56mph is the magic number for fuel efficiency. That comes from older fuel economy tests which were carried out at three fixed speeds: urban, 56mph, and 75mph.

Unsurprisingly, 56mph often came out on top—but that doesn’t mean it’s the best speed for every van today.

How should I accelerate to save fuel?

Gently! Excessive acceleration is one of the biggest fuel-guzzlers. Always aim to accelerate smoothly and with a light right foot—this can make a noticeable difference to your miles per gallon.

What gear should I be in for better fuel efficiency?

The general rule is to drive in the highest gear possible without labouring the engine. In urban areas, aim to change up through the gears quickly, ideally at around 2,000rpm or lower. The faster an engine spins, the more fuel it consumes—so keep those revs down.

What about the ideal cruising speed?

In a real-world test by the RAC using an Audi A6 ultra, the most fuel-efficient speed turned out to be 52mph in seventh gear on the flat. However, that was specific to that car and those conditions. Every van will have a slightly different sweet spot.

What is “hypermiling” and should I do it?

Hypermiling is a driving technique where you adjust your driving style to maximise fuel efficiency, such as anticipating traffic, avoiding harsh braking, and maintaining steady speeds.

It's especially useful when road conditions or gradients prevent you from driving at a consistent, efficient speed.

Are there other factors that affect fuel efficiency besides speed?

Absolutely. Your van’s tyre pressure, roof racks, load weight, and overall driving style all play a big role in how much fuel you use. Even small changes—like removing unnecessary roof boxes—can help boost your mpg.

What are 5 ways to improve your fuel efficiency?

• Reduce your load
• Keep your tyres properly inflated
• Keep your van maintained
• Drive and brake as smoothly as possible
• Plan your journeys