Wednesday, December 06, 2006 Lousy driving worsens problem of rising fuel prices
RISING fuel prices may continue to be a problem for many motorists, but what most people don’t know is that one’s driving affects a vehicle’s fuel consumption.
“It’s not just about using the right fuel. Educating people about the importance of right driving will help (motorists) save money and protect lives,” said John Taylor who, along with wife Helen, bagged the Guinness World Record for fuel economy.
The couple toured several countries by car, using Shell’s main grade fuel – super unleaded and super premium.
Shell regional manager for the Visayas Randolph del Valle said these types of gasoline were designed for fuel economy and “formal driving” motorist, using Shell’s “better mileage” formula.
But del Valle admitted that a vehicle’s fuel consumption is highly dependent on the motorist’s driving habits.
“It’s hard to say how much money they save (using Shell’s better mileage fuel) but if they have well-maintained vehicles, and the proper driving techniques, then they can save a lot,” he said in a press conference last Monday.
John said Filipinos also need to be properly educated about the importance of following precautionary measures posted at gasoline station when refueling.
He said he has observed that most motorists in the country do not adhere to safety measures, such as turning off the engine and refraining from using cellular phones.
“(These are) posted yet many are still texting or using their mobile phones when filling their gas tanks, and worst some are even smoking. These people need to change their ways,” John said.
Helen, on other hand, said that contrary to what many local motorists think, Cebu’s roads are “good.”
“We have been to different countries in Europe and Asia and Cebu has an advantage of having better roads and that itself is an achievement,” she said during the same press conference at the Cebu Country Club.
Shell’s super unleaded and super premium gasoline were introduced in March 2004.
Del Valle said these types of fuel are designed for personal cars, taxi and specific types of multicabs.
Del Valle said Pilipinas Shell Petroleum Corp. has 36 percent share of the market nationwide and 38 percent of Cebu. (MMM)
