Will petrol be left or will your pockets be empty? Run AC or open window, know the right way, otherwise it will be costly.

AC Fuel Consumption: As soon as summer starts, only one question comes in the mind of every driver, should they run the AC of the car or open the windows to save fuel? The common belief is that keeping the AC off always saves petrol, but the truth is not so simple. The real difference depends on what speed you are driving.

Speed ​​determines the right decision

The speed of the vehicle plays the most important role in this whole matter. If you are driving at 40-45 km/hr or less in the city, it is more beneficial to drive with the windows open. At this speed, air pressure is less, due to which open windows do not have much effect on the vehicle and fuel is saved.

But as soon as the speed goes above 50-60 km/h, the situation changes. Opening windows at high speed impairs air flow and puts additional pressure on the vehicle. In such a situation, the engine has to work harder, due to which more fuel is spent. In this situation, running AC becomes a better option.

How much does running AC increase the expenses?

The car’s AC is directly connected to the engine and requires about 3 to 7 horsepower to run. The effect of this is that mileage can be reduced by 10% to 25%, especially when the weather is very hot. Especially in traffic, where the vehicle moves slowly, the use of AC further increases fuel consumption.

What is the effect of open windows?

Driving with the windows open does not put direct pressure on the engine, but it does affect the car’s aerodynamics. Today’s cars are designed in such a way that they can cut through the air easily. When windows are open at high speed, air flow is disrupted and drag increases. This drag can increase by about 8% in SUVs and up to 20% in small cars, causing the engine to work harder and increasing fuel consumption.

City vs Highway Where is it right?

In city traffic, where speeds are low and brakes are high, it is more economical to open the windows. Whereas on the highway, where the vehicle moves at a constant speed, the use of AC is better and more balanced.

Small difference, but big impact

In actual driving, the difference in mileage between AC and windows is not very big, usually 1-2 km/l. But in the long run this small difference can increase your fuel expenses.

Also read: New explosion of Toyota Fortuner is coming, car lovers will be surprised to see the features.

Easy tips to save fuel

Before sitting in the car, open the windows for some time so that the hot air can come out. Use recirculation mode after turning on the AC. Avoid excessive cooling and try to park the car in the shade or use a sunshade.

What to do when?

It is better to open the windows at slow speed, while running the AC at high speed proves to be more beneficial. The correct method depends on your driving situation.