Will you finally opt for fuel efficient car?

Fuel efficient cars, less driving, and more efficient use of fuel as well as clever use of the Salik gates in Dubai could emerge as some key takeaways of fuel price deregulation in the UAE.

The impact of the Ministry of Energy’s decision to deregulate fuel prices as of August 1, 2015, would be wide ranging.

Almost all UAE residents ‘Emirates24|7’ spoke to are of the opinion that the move will have a significant impact on both driving habits as well the choice of vehicles, which is what the government intends.

“It [the move to deregulate fuel prices in UAE] will also encourage individuals to adopt fuel-efficient vehicles, including the use of electric and hybrid cars,” UAE’s Energy Minister said while making the announcement. He added that the decision would encourage the use of public transport.

“If petrol is going to get more expensive, then I would definitely like to shift to a more fuel-efficient car,” says Ronny Kootchar, who only last week finalized a deal to buy one of the so-called ‘gas guzzler’ vehicles.

“Six-cylinder vehicles will soon be a luxury, especially if you happen to drive around a lot,” he says.

“Currently, I pay about Dh500 to Dh600 on petrol every month. A hike in fuel prices would add to the burden,” says Kootchar.

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But when asked if he would reconsider his decision, Kootchar says he will still go ahead and buy the car he’s shortlisted. “I will never be able to afford one in India, so might still go ahead and drive one while I am here in the Gulf,” he says.

Many drivers say the Salik usage pattern might even change. “Right now, my car has a fuel efficiency of about 4.5km per liter. I avoid Salik only if the deviation is less than 10km. I will stop doing that if the fuel prices go up,” says Siddique PK who daily goes around Barsha to avoid the Salik gate near Mall of the Emirates.

“There would be no more stopping the car with the AC on. I see a lot of motorists stop their cars in front of groceries and cafés, with the engine on, sometimes for 5 to 10 minutes. Hope the increase would force drivers to use more fuel efficient means,” says Alita D’souza.

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