It’s summertime and you’re planning your road trip, but with gas prices soaring, every mile matters. While the speed limit may beckon, driving slower can actually save you money on fuel – as long as time isn’t your most precious commodity.

The key to saving at the pump lies in understanding how physics interacts with your car’s engine. Slower speeds mean less air resistance and lower rolling friction, which means your fuel efficiency improves. At a steady 65 mph, you can travel further than at 75 mph due to reduced drag.

But what about that time? While driving slower might take longer, it’s worth considering the cost per minute saved is high: nearly £11 for every hour shaved off your journey. Whether you’re commuting or heading on a trip, think twice before reaching for the gas pedal.

The Department of Energy estimates that for each 5 mph increase over 50 mph, fuel efficiency drops by about 7%. So if you drive at 70 mph instead of 65, you’ll burn more than an extra 2% on your tank. That’s a significant difference when you’re filling up more often.

In the end, it’s all about balancing time and money. If you have to get somewhere quickly, then speed is essential; but for those leisurely drives or long commutes, driving slower could save you not just time, but also cash.