Calculating the Cost of a Trip from Derby to Erewash: A Gas Price Perspective
When planning a trip between Derby, England, and Erewash, understanding the cost associated with your travel can significantly impact your choice of route. With gas prices fluctuating, this article breaks down the various routes available, their distances, and their respective costs based on current gas rates.
Understanding the Distance Between Derby and Erewash
Derby and Erewash are neighboring regions in the East Midlands, making travel between them relatively simple. The distance between the two points varies slightly depending on the route taken.
- Direct Distance: Approximately 10 miles (16 kilometers)
- Common Routes: The distance can range from 10 to 14 miles, depending on the specific destination within Erewash.
Current Gas Prices in the UK
As of October 2023, the average price of petrol in the UK stands around £1.50 per liter. For this article, we'll calculate travel costs assuming this average gas price.
Fuel Economy
The average fuel consumption for compact cars is about 40 miles per gallon (mpg), and for larger cars, expect around 30 mpg. To convert mpg to liters per 100 kilometers (l/100km):
- 40 mpg = 5.88 l/100km
- 30 mpg = 9.4 l/100km
Understanding your vehicle's fuel economy helps gauge the overall cost of your trip.
Route Options
Route 1: A52 to Erewash via the City Center
- Distance: 11 miles
- Estimated Drive Time: 25 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Fuel Consumption: For a car with 40 mpg, approximately 0.5 gallons will be consumed for a one-way journey.
- Cost of Fuel: At £1.50 per liter, and with 1 gallon equating to 4.54 liters:
- Fuel consumed: 0.5 gallons = 2.27 liters
- Cost: 2.27 liters × £1.50 = £3.41
Route 2: A50 and A608
- Distance: 13 miles
- Estimated Drive Time: 30 minutes (traffic permitting)
- Fuel Consumption: For a vehicle averaging 30 mpg, the fuel consumption for this route will amount to roughly 0.43 gallons one way.
- Cost of Fuel:
- Fuel consumed: 0.43 gallons = 1.95 liters
- Cost: 1.95 liters × £1.50 = £2.93
Route 3: Local Roads through Long Eaton
- Distance: 12 miles
- Estimated Drive Time: 35 minutes
- Fuel Consumption: Assuming 40 mpg, expect to consume around 0.3 gallons.
- Cost of Fuel:
- Fuel consumed: 0.3 gallons = 1.36 liters
- Cost: 1.36 liters × £1.50 = £2.04
Cost Summary for Routes
| Route | Distance (miles) | Fuel Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| A52 to Erewash via City Center | 11 | 40 mpg | £3.41 |
| A50 and A608 | 13 | 30 mpg | £2.93 |
| Local Roads through Long Eaton | 12 | 40 mpg | £2.04 |
Recommended Route
Based on the analysis, the recommended route is Route 3: Local Roads through Long Eaton. This option not only offers an economical fuel cost but also presents a shorter yet enjoyable drive through local neighborhoods, often avoiding heavy city traffic.
Additional Considerations
When planning your trip, consider other factors that could affect the cost of your journey.
Traffic and Time of Day
Traffic congestion can significantly alter your travel time; it's best to avoid peak hours when possible. Mid-morning or late afternoon typically proves less congested.
Vehicle Type and Load
The type of vehicle you drive significantly influences fuel consumption. Larger vehicles consume more fuel. Additionally, transporting extra loads can decrease fuel efficiency, increasing your trip's cost.
Conclusion
Traveling from Derby to Erewash is both cost-effective and straightforward. Using the recommended route—Local Roads through Long Eaton—offers the best balance of distance and gas prices, allowing for a drive of about 12 miles that costs as little as £2.04. With an estimated travel time of roughly 35 minutes, you can enjoy a pleasant journey through the East Midlands while keeping costs low.
Whether you’re commuting for work or visiting friends and family, knowing the costs associated with your trip can help inform future decisions and save valuable time and money on your travels.