Saving on petrol as a Private Hire Vehicle (PHV) driver in Singapore is crucial for maximizing your earnings. Here are some specific tips to help you reduce fuel costs and increase your profitability:
1. Choose a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle: When selecting a car for your PHV business, opt for one with good fuel efficiency. Look for hybrid or compact models known for their economical fuel consumption.
2. Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Keep your vehicle in top condition by following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. Well-maintained vehicles are more fuel-efficient.
3. Proper Tire Inflation: Check and maintain the correct tire pressure. Underinflated tires can increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency.
4. Lighten the Load: Remove unnecessary items from your car's trunk and interior. Extra weight can decrease fuel efficiency.
5. Driving Habits: Practice smooth and efficient driving. Avoid rapid acceleration and harsh braking. Maintain a steady speed whenever possible.
6. Observe Speed Limits: Stick to posted speed limits. Higher speeds lead to increased air resistance and fuel consumption.
7. Plan Your Routes: Use navigation apps to find the most efficient routes, avoiding congested areas and traffic jams.
8. Minimize Idling: Turn off your engine when you expect to be stationary for more than a minute. Idling consumes fuel unnecessarily.
9. Air Conditioning Use: Use air conditioning sparingly. Consider using the vehicle's ventilation system or opening windows when it's not too hot.
10. Carpooling: If you have multiple passengers traveling to similar destinations, consider carpooling to maximize earnings per trip and reduce fuel expenses.
11. Choose Off-Peak Hours: Schedule your driving hours during off-peak times to avoid traffic congestion and reduce fuel-wasting stop-and-go situations.
12. Fuel Discount Programs: Explore fuel discount programs offered by petrol stations, credit cards, or even from your trusted car rental company. These can provide savings on each fill-up. Focus Rentals offers an unlimited 30% petrol discount for drivers.
13. Track Fuel Expenses: Keep a record of your fuel expenses and monitor your vehicle's fuel efficiency over time. This helps you identify any anomalies and make adjustments.
14. Driver Incentive Programs: Check if the ride-hailing platform you use offers driver incentive programs or bonuses that reward fuel-efficient driving.
15. Combine Errands:
Plan your trips efficiently to minimize the number of short journeys. Combining errands can reduce the need for frequent refueling.
Remember that efficient driving not only saves on petrol costs but also contributes to a positive passenger experience, potentially leading to better ratings and more repeat business. By implementing these strategies and maintaining a fuel-efficient driving routine, you can boost your earnings as a PHV driver in Singapore while keeping operational costs in check.