Over the past twelve months we have seen the cost of oil skyrocket. Although many Americans are doing their best to adjust to continual hikes at the pump, a pervading sense of fear has worked its way into the mindset of many households. In order to combat this problem focused mindset, we must become solution oriented. As we wait for long term resolutions to evolve, I have highlighted some short term keys to stretching your gas dollar.
1. Easy starts
Don't floor it. Gently accelerate to cruising speed and take it easy when you get there.
Practicality: Great idea, experts say. Jackrabbit starts waste gas. Gentle driving techniques are safer, too. "If you drive carefully, you can almost always meet or beat the EPA (gas mileage) estimates," says Ron Cogan, publisher of Green Car Journal.
2. Drive the speed limit — or less
Cars get better gas mileage going slower on freeways because there is less wind resistance. "The higher the speed above 60 (mph), the more fuel you're losing," Cogan says.
Practicality: Consumer Reports tested a Toyota Camry and got 5 mpg more at 55 mph vs. at 65. California Highway Patrol Officer Heather Hoglund says slowing down is great, but stay in the right lane with other slower traffic.
3. Drive off-center in lanes
Called "ridge riding," you lessen resistance by driving off center in a lane, out of the worn tracks left in the pavement by traffic.
Practicality: OK, but only if there is room to stay well within your lane and not impede — or crowd — other traffic.
4. Time stop lights
Pace your driving to hit as many green lights as possible.
Practicality: Great idea, say experts. And more cities are trying to help by timing lights on arteries to get more cars through on green, to save fuel and promote obeying the speed limit.
5. Hang back from cars ahead
More space in front of your car gives you more room in which to work speed changes that can squeeze out more mpgs. Practicality: Safe. Also adds margin for emergency stops.
6. Combine errands
Cars burn more gas when warming up. Hypermiler Louis Hudgin of Gilbert, Ariz., consolidates his errands to hit several businesses by foot from one parking spot rather than driving to each. He tries to park so he never has to back out of a space.
Practicality: Fine, if you don't mind a little exercise.
7. Don't use air conditioning
Engines work harder if they have to run the AC. But you don't want to roll down the windows, which increases wind drag.
Practicality: You may wish you'd used some gas to keep from arriving at your destination a sweaty, wilted mess.
* These suggestions were detailed in a recent addition of the USA Today. Please see http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/2008-06-23-hypermiling-gas-saving-tips_N.htm for further details.