How to save on fuel as a taxi and Uber driver

Updated: 12 November 2026

1. Discount fuel cards

Optymist drivers get fuel cards that work at all major stations. You fill up without cash and at a discount — cheaper every time.

2. A 50% VAT refund on fuel

Keep your fuel invoices and we pay you back half of the VAT on them. Example: 600 zł gross of fuel a week includes about 112 zł VAT, so the refund is about 56 zł a week. That is over 200 zł a month.

3. Cheaper fuel: LPG, hybrid, electric

The car itself makes the biggest difference. A hybrid uses less in traffic, LPG lowers the cost per kilometre, and an EV charged at home is the cheapest. More in which car for taxi work.

4. Tyre pressure

Low pressure increases consumption and wears tyres faster. Check it weekly with cold tyres, using the values on the door pillar sticker or in the manual.

5. Smooth driving

Hard acceleration and braking are the fastest way to burn fuel. Look far ahead, coast towards red lights and hold a steady speed. Passengers notice too — in your ratings.

6. Fewer empty kilometres

Don’t cruise around aimlessly waiting for a ride. Park where requests come in often — near stations, the airport and shopping centres. See where to drive in Tricity.

7. Don’t idle

Waiting a long time with the engine running is pure waste. A hybrid often switches its engine off by itself; in a regular car, switch it off during long waits.

8. Use air conditioning wisely

Air conditioning raises consumption, but passengers need it in the heat. Air the car briefly before a ride, then keep a moderate temperature.

9. Regular servicing and less weight

A clean air filter, good oil and healthy spark plugs reduce consumption. Clear out what you don’t need from the boot — you’ll want the space for passengers’ suitcases.

FAQ