Understanding Fuel Cost Calculation

This calculator helps you estimate the amount you'll likely spend on fuel for a specific trip. It considers the distance you plan to travel, your vehicle's fuel efficiency, and the price of fuel.

How to Use This Calculator

1. Trip Distance: Enter the total length of your journey and select whether it's in kilometers (km) or miles.
2. Vehicle Fuel Efficiency: Enter your car's average fuel consumption figure. Select the correct unit:
   • L/100km: Liters needed to travel 100 kilometers (Common in NZ, Europe, etc.). Lower numbers are better.
   • km/L: Kilometers traveled per liter of fuel. Higher numbers are better.
   • MPG (US): Miles traveled per US gallon. Higher numbers are better.
   • MPG (UK): Miles traveled per UK (Imperial) gallon. Higher numbers are better. (Note: UK gallon is larger than US gallon).
   You can usually find this information on your car's dashboard computer, in the owner's manual, or through online resources for your specific vehicle model. Use an average figure if possible.
3. Fuel Price: Enter the current price of fuel and select whether the price is per liter or per gallon (US or UK).
4. Click "Estimate Fuel Cost".

Interpreting Your Results

• Estimated Fuel Cost: The primary result is the total estimated cost for fuel for the entire trip distance entered.
• Total Fuel Needed (Optional): The calculator also shows the estimated total amount of fuel (in liters) required for the trip.

Calculation Steps

1. All inputs (distance, efficiency, price) are converted into standard metric units (km, L/100km, $/Liter) for calculation.
2. **Fuel Needed Calculation:**
   • If efficiency is L/100km: `Fuel (L) = (Distance (km) / 100) * Efficiency (L/100km)`
   • If efficiency is km/L: `Fuel (L) = Distance (km) / Efficiency (km/L)`
3. **Total Cost Calculation:** `Total Cost = Fuel Needed (L) * Price per Liter ($/L)`

Factors Affecting Actual Fuel Cost

• Driving Style: Aggressive acceleration and braking increase fuel consumption. Smooth driving saves fuel.
• Vehicle Load: Carrying heavy loads or extra passengers increases fuel usage.
• Terrain: Driving uphill requires more fuel than driving on flat roads or downhill.
• Traffic Conditions: Stop-and-go traffic significantly reduces fuel efficiency compared to highway driving.
• Tyre Pressure: Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption.
• Air Conditioning/Heating: Using the A/C or heater uses extra fuel.
• Fuel Price Fluctuations: Fuel prices can change, affecting the actual cost.