Fuel Consumption Calculator

Fuel Consumption Explained: A Complete Guide for Petrol, Diesel, EV & CNG Owners

Whether you drive a petrol hatchback, a diesel SUV, an electric car, or a CNG vehicle, one thing is certain: fuel consumption directly affects your pocket and the planet. Knowing how efficiently your vehicle uses energy can save you money, reduce emissions, and even extend the life of your car. This guide, combined with our Fuel Consumption Calculator, will help you understand the numbers and make smarter decisions.

1. Understanding Traditional Fuel Consumption (Petrol & Diesel)

Petrol and diesel vehicles remain the most common worldwide. Their consumption is usually measured in two ways:

• Liters per 100 kilometers (L/100km): Widely used in Europe and Asia. A lower value means better efficiency. For example, 6 L/100km is more efficient than 9 L/100km.
• Miles per gallon (MPG): Popular in the US and UK. A higher MPG means more distance traveled with less fuel.

Your car’s display gives an estimate, but the most reliable way is the “Full Tank Method”: fill your tank, reset the trip meter, drive normally, refill again, and divide the distance traveled by the liters refilled. This real-world method is the gold standard.

2. Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Energy Efficiency

EVs don’t burn fuel; they use electricity stored in batteries. Their efficiency is measured in:

• Kilowatt-hours per 100 km (kWh/100km): Lower values mean less electricity used. Many EVs average between 14–20 kWh/100km.
• MPGe (Miles per Gallon Equivalent): A comparison metric created to match gasoline vehicles. While useful, kWh/100km is more accurate for cost tracking.

By checking your EV’s dashboard or using our calculator, you can estimate real charging costs and compare them directly with fuel-powered cars.

3. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG): A Cleaner Alternative

CNG is gaining popularity as a cost-effective and eco-friendly option. It is measured differently because it’s stored as gas:

• Kilograms per 100 kilometers (kg/100km): Typical consumption ranges between 4–6 kg/100km for small cars.

Advantages of CNG

• Usually cheaper than petrol or diesel per kilometer.
• Produces fewer CO₂ emissions, making it environmentally friendly.

Drawbacks of CNG

• Smaller driving range compared to petrol/diesel.
• Fewer refueling stations in some regions.
• Storage cylinders reduce trunk space.

4. How to Use the Fuel Consumption Calculator

Our tool is designed to be simple and practical:

1. Choose your vehicle type: Select Petrol, Diesel, EV, or CNG.
2. Input fuel/energy data: Enter real consumption figures (L/100km, kWh/100km, or kg/100km) or use average values from our list.
3. Enter trip details: Add distance and fuel/energy prices.
4. Get instant results: The calculator shows total cost, fuel/energy required, and CO₂ impact.

For comparison lovers, our advanced tool also lets you check Petrol vs. Diesel vs. EV vs. CNG side by side.

5. Practical Tips to Lower Fuel Consumption

Improving efficiency doesn’t always require buying a new car. These small changes can have a big impact:

• Drive smoothly: Sudden acceleration and hard braking increase consumption.
• Keep tires inflated: Low tire pressure can waste 3–5% more fuel.
• Reduce extra weight: Every 50 kg of load can lower efficiency by 1–2%.
• Service regularly: Clean filters, fresh oil, and proper maintenance keep your vehicle efficient.
• Remove roof racks when not in use: They increase drag and reduce mileage on highways.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my car’s real fuel economy differ from the brochure value?

Official ratings are measured in labs under controlled conditions. Real-world driving involves traffic, weather, road slopes, and your driving style, which all impact fuel economy.

Is CNG really cheaper in the long run?

Yes, per kilometer it’s usually the cheapest option. However, consider refueling convenience and reduced boot space before switching.

How do EV emissions compare with petrol and diesel cars?

EVs produce no tailpipe emissions. Their total carbon footprint depends on how your electricity is generated. In regions with renewable energy, EVs are significantly cleaner.

Conclusion: Make Your Kilometers Count

Tracking and reducing fuel consumption isn’t just about saving money—it’s about smarter driving and reducing environmental impact. Use our Fuel Consumption Calculator regularly to monitor your costs and choose the most efficient driving habits. Every kilometer saved is money in your pocket and a step toward a greener planet.