The UK Government could be drawing up plans that could see drivers asked to slow down across Britain’s roads, as ministers prepare for what officials warn could be a serious fuel shortage within weeks.
A summary of the National Emergency Plan for Fuel (NEP‑F), seen by The Telegraph, outlines a series of interventions designed to cut national fuel consumption. Among them is a temporary reduction of speed limits to 50mph, an idea deep at the roots of “hypermiling”.
The proposals come as tensions in the Middle East continue to disrupt global oil supplies. Iran’s ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has already pushed up prices and raised concerns about the UK’s ability to maintain steady imports. Fuel tankers take around 30 days to reach Britain from the Gulf, meaning the full impact of the closure has not been fully felt by consumers and industry.
Diesel fuel is particularly vulnerable to these supply issues, with around 7 per cent of UK supply sourced from the region.
Why slowing down works
While a national 50mph limit may be somewhat of an inconvenience to motorists, the reasoning behind it is straightforward. Cars are most fuel‑efficient at moderate speeds. Once a vehicle travels above 50 to 60mph, aerodynamic drag increases, requiring more fuel to maintain the speed.
Hypermiling enthusiasts (such as Hypermiler.co.uk) have long pointed out that dropping speed by even 10mph on motorways can deliver noticeable savings. Conservative estimates quote savings of between 10 and 25 per cent, depending on the vehicle.
Ministers urged to prepare for disruption
Oil prices have already surged to $107 / £80 as of today after the US targeted Iranian production facilities over the weekend.
Energy economist Prof Nick Butler, a former adviser to Gordon Brown, warned that ministers should be preparing for a “significant shortfall” in the coming two months.
With the flow of tankers already disrupted and global markets tightening, the Government appears to be signalling that Britain may need to adapt its driving habits. Nationwide “hypermiling” may not be popular, but we argue it could be one of the simplest, least intrusive ways to stretch existing reserves.
More on Hypermiling
For readers looking to cut their fuel use even further, check out the link below for a range of simple “hypermiling” techniques that can make a surprising difference for your fuel efficiency and wallet.
More on the NEP-F
Read more about how the Government prepares for fuel disruptions in the The National Emergency Plan for Fuel (NEP‑F). It outlines the full range of response tools and actions available during a fuel supply crisis. The summary sets out how ministers would manage fuel shortages, prioritise essential services, and introduce temporary measures.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/energy-emergency-plans-priority-fuel-allocation
Let’s hear from you
What steps are you taking to reduce your fuel consumption during surging fuel costs? Let us know in the comments below
