Australian drivers are easing off the accelerator in a bid to squeeze more kilometres out of every tank and cut their fuel costs. New research from finance experts Money.com.au has revealed that 39 per cent of Aussies are driving slower than usual or below the speed limit to save money as prices continue to sit above $2 per litre around the country.

Money‘s survey of more than 1000 Australian drivers found that 23 per cent reduce their speed on suburban or arterial roads to conserve fuel, while 16 per cent do so mainly on highways or motorways. They’re not just taking a mild approach, either, averaging 7km/h below the posted speed limit.

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Money‘s research showed that Gen Z drivers are the most likely to deliberately slow down or drive below the speed limit to save fuel (45 per cent), compared with 42 per cent of Millennials and 36 per cent of both Gen X and Baby Boomers. Younger drivers are also shaving more speed off. Gen Z motorists who use the tactic travel an average of 8km/h below the speed limit, compared with 7km/h across all other generations.

“Petrol is one of those grudge expenses, and with the full fuel excise now at 53.7 cents per litre, it makes sense that drivers are looking for small ways to save at the pump. While many Aussies are driving less or catching more public transport, others are simply easing off the accelerator to stretch every litre further,” said Money’s head of insights, Sean Callery.

“Driving a little slower can improve fuel efficiency up to a point, but there are better ways to reduce your fuel bill. Use a fuel-tracking app to find cheaper petrol in your area or exchange your credit card points for fuel gift cards to save directly at the bowser. Smooth acceleration, keeping your tyres properly inflated and avoiding unnecessary weight in the car can also help improve fuel economy.”