Ever wondered on how you can cut commuting costs? We got it figured out for you.
Alternative Fuel Sources
Biodiesel: Made from vegetable oil and animal fat, it is the cheapest and cleanest fuel available
Ethanol: It is the clear and colorless fuel option. It is manufactured by distilling ground corn and sugar plants
Electricity: It is clean fuel but the storage capacity is limited. Solar energy could be used for recharging in future, making electric cars accessible to the average users
Thinking has been done for you. Here are a few tips that will help you bring down commuting costs:
1. Buy Used Car: Most cars lose value in the first few years. Purchasing a car second hand helps you drive a car which you cannot afford brand new.
Car models that are less than five years old are beneficial. You get nearly a new car at fraction of the new car price and also save cost on insurance and taxes.
2. Improve Car Mileage: Buying fuel efficient cars is the obvious way to cut cost. But you can take decisions that further stretch your gas mileage.
Maintain your car which may include simple steps like, ensuring that the tires are properly inflated. As per the tests conducted by Edmunds.com, driving with 25 percent under inflated tires will cost you 3.5 percent loss on fuel economy.
Also, ensure that you travel light. You may not realize but the more weight your car carries, the harder the engine has to work, thus burning more fuel.
Avoid rush hours. Leave a little early as getting stuck in traffic jam only burns your fuel while you are waiting to move.
3. Cut Cost on Insurance : Update yourself on insurance offered by various companies. Rates differ from insurer to insurer. Re-shop your car insurance to get the best deal.
If you reduce your weekly commute mileage, make sure that you tell your insurer. You may get discount if you drive less than 7,500 miles in a year.
4. Consider Alternatives: Calculate how much you spend commuting everyday back and forth to work. Now evaluate how much would it cost on mass transit.
Find out if your company offers commuter benefits. Many state governments provide tax exemptions to employers for offering commuter passes to their employees.
You can also go for carpool if your neighbor works near you. This will help you in splitting your commuting cost. This is particularly helpful in areas that lack mass transit system.
Make the most of the available options. Even saving a few cents everyday can create a big difference.
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