Christmas shopping could impact fuel usage (Image: Getty)
shopping could have an impact on and fuel use.
on fuel consumption with usage are carried around.
Experts have previously warned an extra 50kg could increase fuel use by around 2%.
Although , big shopping trips this week could have the same effect.
Heavy bags of food shopping, Christmas presents and decorations all packed in a car will add up with motorists likely to feel the sting.
Excess weight can impact fuel consumption (Image: Getty)
said: “Driving around with heavy loads in your car might be costing you more than you think. Every 50kg weight inside your car increases fuel consumption by around 2%.”
specifically added that car “clutter” is likely to backfire meaning even small items in a boot could have a bigger impact than many may initially believe.
They commented: “Unused roof bars, bike racks and clutter in the boot all add extra weight to your car.
“Carrying 50kg of excess weight can increase your fuel consumption by up to 2%. Save fuel by making sure you’re not carrying around any weight you don’t need to be.”
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However, the impact will be less strong in 2024 with petrol and diesel prices lower than previous years.
According to , drivers will enjoy the cheapest Christmas at the fuel pumps since the start of the pandemic.
The latest analysis puts the average petrol cost at 136.5p per litre with diesel now at 142.25p per litre.
It means the average price to top-up a 55-litre family car is £75 for petrol and £78 for diesel.
However, claims motorists are saving around £6 per tank compared to last year with unleaded around 10p per litre more affordable.
RAC head of policy Simon Williams explained: “Heading up to the most expensive time of year for families, it’s good to see that this Christmas is set to be the cheapest for fuel since the pandemic.
“Despite both petrol and diesel rising by a penny and two pence respectively in November, the difference to a year ago is considerable with petrol 10.5p lower and diesel 12p less.
“This is great news for people making long festive journeys to visit friends and families as it should save them around £6 on a tank of fuel compared to last year.”