Monday, April 15, 2024

Some tips for economical driving in Belgrade

otoreni krovni prozor troši više goriva
Otvoreni krovni prozor troši više goriva. Izvor; Megan Ruth, Pixels

Car rental is allowed for all adults who meet the requirements of the car rental agency. Some drivers often overestimate their driving skills and have to visit the gas station more often and more quickly. You should know that when a vehicle is rented, fuel costs fall on the driver. The amount of fuel you rented the vehicle with is the amount you need to return, otherwise you have to pay the difference. Which can be large.

Some economical driving skills will help you extend the time between fillings up at the gas station and thus save on fuel. Regardless of whether you are an experienced car driver or a beginner, there is always room to improve your driving skills regarding fuel economy, especially in a city like Belgrade.

Here are some tips on how to obtain that:


Turn off the engine while you wait


We already know the length of the wait at some traffic lights. All drivers have experienced those situations every day in Belgrade and other larger cities. Well, we can turn off the engine. The car does not have to be left on for several minutes because that is simply unacceptable. It is recommended to turn off the engine if we know we will be standing for more than a minute or two. Although you have rented a vehicle, do not forget that you pay for the used fuel.



Gradual acceleration and deceleration


The higher the car speed, the larger is fuel consumption. Drivers like to press harder on the gas pedal, to suddenly accelerate and brake without obvious reasons. However, do you know that such sudden acceleration increases fuel consumption by up to 20%? The economic optimal speed is in a range of 70-90 km/h, a higher speed results in increased fuel consumption.



Monitor the traffic situation


Good monitoring of the traffic situation, in a large city like Belgrade, will prevent sudden braking and stress for you and the car. It is necessary to assume the movement and behavior of other traffic participants. Experience can help us understand traffic situations and to adapt more easily.

gužve u saobraćaju
Izvor; Pixabay, Pixels

Avoid crowded streets


Who likes to spend endless time in traffic on the way to or from work? In addition to wasted time and nerves, remember how many times you stopped and started the vehicle and increased fuel consumption. If "stop and go" is in your blood, try to change it a little. Check alternative routes or try to avoid rush hour traffic.



Check the tire pressure


The tires on our vehicles require some maintenance. They should be sufficiently and precisely inflated because their condition affects, first of all, our safety, and then their lifespan and fuel efficiency. The cars are more fuel efficient if the tires are properly inflated. If the pressure is lower than the optimum, the fuel consumption increases. It is recommended to check the tires at least twice a month.



Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle


More weight, more fuel consumption. People tend to leave things in their cars. Maybe for some things, it is justified, but for some unimportant not only that is unnecessary but is also harmful. For example, we certainly don't need beach chairs in the car during the winter. So, don't turn your car into warehouse.



Remove the roof racks and boxes attached to the top of the car


The effect of roof racks is similar to that of windows left open, but a little worse. The supports on the roof of the car increase the resistance to the movement of the vehicle in such a way that - the higher the speed of the car, the more fuel it needs to move. So keep in mind that the roof racks can be easily attached or detached and do not need to be permanently installed on the vehicle.



Adjust the gear to the current speed


A timely change of gear makes the difference between good and bad drivers. Fortunately, new vehicles have an indication of the optimal gear ratio, which drivers should always use if they want to save fuel.



Closed windows and sunroof


During the hot days, it's really fun to drive with the open windows. But it comes at a price. The wind noise that we hear when the windows are open is actually an additional load for the vehicle because it creates resistance to movement and therefore increases fuel consumption. Sometimes the air conditioner is turned on while the windows are opened, which from the point of view of fuel consumption, let us say, is quite arrogant.


Monday, April 1, 2024

How to choose rent a car agency that’s best for you, when you come to Belgrade

 


Renting a car can significantly enhance your travel experience, offering flexibility and freedom to explore the vibrant city of Belgrade at your own pace. However, with numerous rental agencies at the airport Nikola Tesla vying for your attention, selecting the optimal one can be daunting. This guide aims to equip you with essential insights and criteria to choose the perfect car rental agency for your journey through Belgrade.

Research and Compare 

Begin your quest by conducting thorough research on various car rental agencies operating in Belgrade. Utilize online platforms, such as travel forums, review websites, and official agencies' websites, to gather information regarding available options, pricing, vehicle models, and customer feedback. Pay close attention to reviews from travelers who have previously rented cars in Belgrade to gain valuable insights into the quality of service provided by different agencies.

Assess Rental Policies 

Before committing to a car rental agency, carefully review their rental policies to ensure they align with your preferences and requirements. Pay attention to crucial details such as rental duration, mileage limits, fuel policies, insurance coverage, and any additional fees or charges. Opt for agencies that offer transparent and flexible policies, allowing you to customize your rental experience according to your specific needs.

Consider Fleet Diversity 

Choose a car rental agency that boasts a diverse fleet of vehicles to cater to various preferences and travel requirements. Whether you prefer compact cars for navigating narrow city streets or spacious SUVs for long-distance journeys, opt for an agency that offers a wide selection of well-maintained vehicles from reputable manufacturers. Additionally, inquire about the availability of optional features such as GPS navigation systems, child seats, and vehicle accessories to enhance your driving experience.

Evaluate Customer Support



Superior customer support can significantly enhance your car rental experience, especially when navigating unfamiliar territories. Prioritize agencies that offer reliable customer support services, including 24/7 assistance hotlines, roadside assistance, and multilingual support staff. Prompt and effective communication channels are essential for addressing any concerns or emergencies that may arise during your journey, ensuring a hassle-free rental experience.

Factor in Pricing and Discounts 

While cost is undoubtedly a crucial factor in selecting a car rental agency, prioritize value over price alone. Request comprehensive price quotes from multiple agencies, taking into account all applicable fees, taxes, and insurance costs. Additionally, inquire about any ongoing promotions, discounts, or loyalty programs that could potentially lower your rental expenses. However, be wary of agencies offering excessively low prices, as they may compromise on service quality or impose hidden charges.

Prioritize Safety and Reliability 

When choosing a car rental agency, prioritize safety and reliability to ensure a secure and stress-free travel experience. Opt for agencies that adhere to rigorous maintenance standards, regularly inspecting and servicing their vehicles to guarantee optimal performance and safety. Additionally, verify the agency's reputation for punctuality and reliability in delivering reserved vehicles as scheduled, minimizing any potential delays or inconveniences during your trip. 

Conclusion


Selecting the ideal car rental agency for your journey through Belgrade requires careful consideration of various factors, including pricing, policies, fleet diversity, customer support, safety, and reliability. By conducting thorough research, comparing available options, and prioritizing your preferences and requirements, you can confidently choose an agency that best suits your needs, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable travel experience in the vibrant capital of Serbia.

Welcome to Serbia!

Pictures: Rent a car Menadzer Express You Tube (screenshots)