Try as we might to avoid them, we still turn to cars for much of our business. There are a lot of suggestions for drivers: what to do and what not to do. Often, statements disagree. So, what should you do? What difference will it make?
- Drive the speed limit. – The amount of horsepower it takes to move a car increases exponentially with speed. This means that doubling your speed can quadruple the amount of gas that is used. Also, for the amount of time (or should I say lack there of) you save, going fast isn’t worth it. For a five mile stretch on the highway, going 75 mph will get you there in about 4 minutes while 60 mph gets you there in 5 minutes. There’s just a minute difference, so if you’re already late, the minute won’t make much a difference anyway. Your safest bet is to drive the speed limit, if not below it.
- As far as AC and open windows are concerned…- At highway speeds, the “fuel consumption” difference between the two of them is negligible. Using the AC always will reduce your miles per gallon, so at lower speeds, opt for the windows. If you don’t like the smell/strength of the outside air, you always could bring a portable fan into your car; portable fans won’t affect your fuel consumption.
- Use cruise control – Cruise control has an average savings of 7% because it reduces the surges a normal driver has that wastes gas. You should not use cruise control in mountainous regions.
- Check your tire pressure. -You’ve probably heard this one before. You should keep your tires within the recommended limits, for safety and efficiency. Firmer tires are more efficient on the road than their counterparts
- Avoid idling, it wastes gas. – Do so by… Staying away from driving during rush hour, stopping for fast food rather than using the drive through, turning the car off when waiting for more than a couple minutes (ex. picking up a friend), and waiting to turn on the car until after you’re completely ready to drive (fastening seat belt, adjusting mirrors).
