What is hypermiling? 4 driving techniques that save you money on gas
One of the best ways to go green is to travel in an electric vehicle. But while electric vehicles are more popular than ever, most people still can't afford the high price tag.
For those who still drive combustion engine cars, there are still ways to maximize their mileage for less money.
This technique is called hypermiling, a strategy for getting the last mile out of a gallon of fuel. It's a great example of eco-driving in action.
Here are four hypermiling strategies you can use right now.
Related: The 5 Most Luxurious Electric Cars On The Market That Will Make You Want To Skip Gas
1. Keep your engine tunedThe first step to hypermiling is to configure your car for maximum efficiency. Using driving techniques will definitely help save fuel, but you're only halfway there if your vehicle isn't properly maintained.
First, get the car tuned. This involves changing the spark plugs, so this is an excellent opportunity to opt for iridium-tipped "performance" spark plugs which will be very effective in creating combustion. The result is more power while using less fuel and contributing to fewer emissions.
You should also get an oil change done and switch to synthetic motor oil if you haven't already. Synthetic oil is durable and will cost less over time, but more importantly, it will increase engine efficiency and thus consume less fuel. Also look for a light engine oil as it is easier for the engine to pump it in, which improves efficiency.
2. Maintain tiresOne of the most critical aspects of hypermiling is the condition of your tires. The key is the amount of rubber in contact with the road.
They need to be properly aligned so they wear evenly and have the right contact with the road. Then they must be properly inflated. According to the US Department of Energy, you can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3% by keeping your tires inflated to the correct pressure.
When underinflated, too much road contact and friction will reduce fuel efficiency. On the other hand, overinflated tires cause a lot of drag and are dangerous when driving, in addition to reduced efficiency.
3. Drive regularlyConstantly slowing down and speeding up is one of the worst ways to reduce fuel efficiency. Instead, try to use a constant speed without much variation. If you have cruise control, use it when it makes sense.
You should also try to use your brakes less and just slow down when you need to slow down. When you accelerate from a slow gear rather than a full stop, you increase your efficiency. Keep your distance between other cars so you can drive slowly rather than coming to a complete stop.
4. Pack lightlyKeep unnecessary items out of your vehicle, especially heavy items that can weigh you down. According to the US Department of Energy, an extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your fuel consumption by up to 2%.
One of the best ways to go green is to travel in an electric vehicle. But while electric vehicles are more popular than ever, most people still can't afford the high price tag.
For those who still drive combustion engine cars, there are still ways to maximize their mileage for less money.
This technique is called hypermiling, a strategy for getting the last mile out of a gallon of fuel. It's a great example of eco-driving in action.
Here are four hypermiling strategies you can use right now.
Related: The 5 Most Luxurious Electric Cars On The Market That Will Make You Want To Skip Gas
1. Keep your engine tunedThe first step to hypermiling is to configure your car for maximum efficiency. Using driving techniques will definitely help save fuel, but you're only halfway there if your vehicle isn't properly maintained.
First, get the car tuned. This involves changing the spark plugs, so this is an excellent opportunity to opt for iridium-tipped "performance" spark plugs which will be very effective in creating combustion. The result is more power while using less fuel and contributing to fewer emissions.
You should also get an oil change done and switch to synthetic motor oil if you haven't already. Synthetic oil is durable and will cost less over time, but more importantly, it will increase engine efficiency and thus consume less fuel. Also look for a light engine oil as it is easier for the engine to pump it in, which improves efficiency.
2. Maintain tiresOne of the most critical aspects of hypermiling is the condition of your tires. The key is the amount of rubber in contact with the road.
They need to be properly aligned so they wear evenly and have the right contact with the road. Then they must be properly inflated. According to the US Department of Energy, you can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3% by keeping your tires inflated to the correct pressure.
When underinflated, too much road contact and friction will reduce fuel efficiency. On the other hand, overinflated tires cause a lot of drag and are dangerous when driving, in addition to reduced efficiency.
3. Drive regularlyConstantly slowing down and speeding up is one of the worst ways to reduce fuel efficiency. Instead, try to use a constant speed without much variation. If you have cruise control, use it when it makes sense.
You should also try to use your brakes less and just slow down when you need to slow down. When you accelerate from a slow gear rather than a full stop, you increase your efficiency. Keep your distance between other cars so you can drive slowly rather than coming to a complete stop.
4. Pack lightlyKeep unnecessary items out of your vehicle, especially heavy items that can weigh you down. According to the US Department of Energy, an extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your fuel consumption by up to 2%.
What's Your Reaction?
