There seems to be more and more written and spoken on how to increase fuel economy. Most owners, drivers and prospective car buyers contemplate, muse and practically try to capitalize on this gas mileage consumption, efficiency equation and value proposition to take a lesser hit at the pump and in the pocketbook.
Recent statements by the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in the newly released 2006 Fuel Economy Guide highlight this trend to increase fuel economy: “Hybrid and diesel vehicles continue to lead the government's fuel economy ratings, with the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius hybrids and Volkswagen New Beetle and Golf diesels topping the list. Several hybrid SUVs are ranked in the top-ten for model year 2006, including the Lexus RX 400h, Ford Escape Hybrid, Mazda Tribute Hybrid, Mercury Mariner Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Hybrid technology can be used to improve fuel economy and performance. One conventional gasoline-fueled vehicle made the 2006 top-ten list: the Toyota Corolla with manual transmission.”
An increase fuel economy is good for the bottom dollar, the longevity, affordability and value of the vehicle, as well as the interests of driver and environment, automakers and even avid enthusiasts willing to take the time, money and effort to improve these aspects of getter around.
Most of us do not have the luxury of not worrying about what gas prices are and how they continue to rise. Saving money and protecting the environment by cutting pollutants that seep into our atmosphere and air we breathe increasingly gives us a broader and deeper focus than mere price and economic impact. We all have a part to play to increase fuel economy.
Purchase a fuel efficient car and/or keep existing or older models in good running condition to optimize fuel efficiency.
Ensure aerodynamics and less drag, correct fit, appropriate tires, inflated and pressurized to carry the load and function optimally.
Smaller and lighter vehicles are the answer for they are more fuel efficient, use less fuel to get where they need to go.
Keeping track of your mileage might actually help you increase fuel economy, it raises your awareness and have you adjusting even your ‘bad’ driving habits to capitalize on and optimize, improve and increase fuel economy.
Keep your following distance. Obey the speed limit and drive at a consistent speed. When driving in hill-type terrain ensure that the pressure you apply to the gas pedal is even and not jerky, sporadic and quickly as this requires more energy, more fuel and will decrease your fuel efficiency.
Lower your speed and turn off all unnecessary accessories. Even at start-up, turn fan, A/C, radio etc. off. Demanding less energy, will have you using less fuel and therefore increase fuel economy.
Reduce the weight you transport, by removing tow hooks, bike and roof racks when not in use.
Fuel injection and spark plugs, ignition and thermostat need to be checked regularly too, to ensure optimal functioning of your vehicle and increased fuel economy.
