Recounting the experience, John Taylor said the trip was the realisation of a great ambition. “The challenge was a trip of a lifetime – absolutely unforgettable. It was a true technical challenge for the new fuel and a real test of endurance,” said John. “During the trip we encountered every extreme of temperature, climate and terrain from minus 15C in Macedonia to plus 46C in the Australian outback; through hail, cyclones, snow, ice and flood; in the teeth of roaring gales; across plains and rutted miles of pitted tracks,” he said. “We averaged just 22.2 kms per litre, which is phenomenal considering the official VW figures over urban and extra-urban terrain for the Golf FSI1.is 14.3 kms per litre. “It was certainly a fantastic team effort and we’re so proud to have set the record with Shell.” Shell’s new formula is part of an ongoing commitment to help its customers get the most out of their fuel, an effort that started with the development of fuel-efficient driving practices under the name of FuelStretch driving tips. During their visit to Geelong the Taylor’s outlined each of Shell’s FuelStretch tips together with practical examples arising from the challenge. As Helen Taylor explained, the 8119 kms covered in Australian was her favourite part of the trip, although the terrain and weather presented some unique challenges. “We applied Shell’s FuelStretch tips all over the world such as keeping the window’s closed as open one’s can slow you down. However, in Australia where the temperature hit 46C, we had to make a decision between opening the windows and air-conditioning, which uses more energy, so we drove with open windows,” she said. “In Australia we were also presented with our most bizarre experience. That is, driving through the centre of a tropical storm and cyclone in Australia!” Shell launched the new fuel economy formula across its Unleaded, Unleaded 95 and Shell Premium Unleaded fuels last month. The new formula is part of a wider program designed to help Australian motorists improve fuel economy through reduction of engine friction and improved engine cleanliness together with fuel-efficient driving hints and tips. In the same way the Taylor’s set a new Guinness World Record for fuel efficiency, Shell hopes everyday drivers – including employees - will see that it is possible to achieve improvements in their own fuel economy. Shell’s FuelStretch program includes the following hints and tips: 1. Drive smoothly - Aggressive driving can use as much as a third more fuel than safe driving*. Avoid accelerating or braking too hard and try to keep your steering as smooth as possible. 2. Use higher gears - The higher gear you drive in the lower your engine speed is, which can improve fuel efficiency. So change up a gear whenever you can, without labouring the engine. 3. Tune and service your engine - A well-tuned engine can improve fuel economy by up to 4%**, so change your oil and follow your car manufacturer’s recommendation on servicing. 4. Keep your tyres at the right pressure – Correctly inflated tyres are safer and last longer. A tyre that is under inflated by just 1psi can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 3%**. An under or over inflated tyre is also more susceptible to failing. 5. Avoid carrying excess weight – For every extra 100 lbs (45 kg) you carry your fuel efficiency can drop by 1-2%*. So keep your boot or back seat clear of unnecessary items that just add weight to your vehicle. 6. Keep the windows closed - Wind blowing through an open window will slow you down. To compensate, you may put your foot down harder, using more fuel. 7. Take the roof rack off - If you’re not using your roof rack then remove it. They affect the aerodynamic efficiency of your vehicle and create drag, reducing fuel economy by as much as 5%*. 8. Use the correct oil - Always use the recommended grade of motor oil. Using the manufacturer’s recommended lubricant can improve fuel efficiency by 1-2%**. Higher quality motor oils can also help your engine operate more efficiently. 9. Use cruise control - Using cruise control on major roads helps you maintain a constant speed and, in many cases, will improve fuel consumption. 10. Avoid excess idling - Idling gets you nowhere but still burns fuel. Turn the engine off when you’re in a queue, or waiting for someone, until you need it. ENDS
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