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#PetrolStrike: BP sheds light on fuel-strike crisis

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<B>FIGHTING THE FUEL STRIKE:</B> BP SA responds to the ongoing fuel strike.  <I>Image: Supplied / BP Colchester</I>
<B>FIGHTING THE FUEL STRIKE:</B> BP SA responds to the ongoing fuel strike. <I>Image: Supplied / BP Colchester</I>
BP Colchester

Cape Town - The on-going industrial strike action affecting SA's petroleum industry continues in August as workers are demanding increased wages. 

The strike, which Wheels24 first reported in July 2016, has left numerous filling stations without any fuel and motorists being turned away by these service providers.

In August, the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) has called on workers taking part in the strike to remain strong and resolute in their demands

READ: #PetrolStrike - Here's how SA motorists can save fuel and avoid being stranded

BP South Africa responds: 

Question: How long is the fuel strike expected to last?

BP: Currently, we do not know how long the strike will last as it is industry-wide but hoping all parties involved reach a settlement soon.

Q: How will the on-going strike affect SA motorists?

BP: Motorists will only be affected should the pumps run dry, which the National Petroleum Employers' Association (NPEA) is doing its best through negotiations to avert.

Q: What advice can you share with road users?

BP: Motorists are advised to stick to their normal refueling patterns to assist the petroleum industry in ensuring security of supply.

READ: Fuel strike: 'Be strong,' Numsa urges workers

Top fuel saving tips: List by BP

BP: Keep your vehicle well-tuned. The vehicle must be maintained as per the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) recommendations:

  • Vehicles must be serviced in accordance to the OEM’s schedule.
  • Air filters must be changed regularly.
  • Spark plugs must be changed regularly at least for a petrol vehicle.
  • Keeping your tyres properly inflated to the recommended pressure saves fuel. This improves fuel consumption. Under-inflated tyres are dangerous.
  • Vehicle lubricants must be of the correct grade, good condition and used at the correct levels.
  • Selected use of your aircon will boost fuel consumption.
  • Roof-racks and other after-market add-on equipment on the outside of the vehicle will increase drag and reduce the aerodynamics of the vehicle which will increase fuel consumption.
  • Be weight-conscious. Carrying unnecessary items inside the vehicle will increase the vehicles weight and thus increase fuel consumption.

READ: BP launches its best ever range of dirt-busting fuels


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