DRIVING: Gas Saving
Tips 2003 Check the tires. Have
your wheels aligned and keep your tires properly inflated.
Low tire pressure wastes over two million gallons of
gasoline in the United States every day. Travel
light and pack smart. Avoid hauling unnecessary
loads; extra weight decreases fuel economy and increases
pollutant emissions. Placing luggage inside rather than on
the roof or trunk of the vehicle maintains an aerodynamic
profile, minimizing drag and increasing mileage. Accelerate and decelerate
smoothly and gradually. Jack-rabbit starts consume up to
50% more fuel than slow, steady accelerations. Know when to use the
air. Air conditioning can decrease your fuel
efficiency by as much as 12% in stop-and-go traffic, so
consider cracking the windows. But remember, at high speeds,
driving with the windows open can also decrease the overall
efficiency of the vehicle. Park it, once there.
Once at your destination, consider parking your car and
using other modes of transportation to get around. Walk to
dinner, rent bikes to go shopping, or take the bus. Reducing
the amount you drive can have the greatest benefit on the
environment.
Driving
contributes to air pollution and smog, exacerbating
respiratory problems and obscuring scenic vistas. Vehicles
also produce greenhouse gases that contribute to global
warming. By taking a few simple steps, motorists can make
travel lighter on the environment and lighter on their
budget.
Keep your engine tuned properly.
Checking spark plugs, oxygen sensors, air filters,
hoses and belts are a few examples of maintenance that can
save a vehicle owner up to 165 gallons of gas per year,
resulting in potential savings of $230.
Slow down and drive less aggressively.
In highway travel, exceeding the speed limit by a
mere 5 m.p.h. results in an average fuel economy loss of
6%. Also, conservative estimates show that aggressive
driving can result in a 10% impact on fuel economy and cost
drivers more than $80 per year.
Information is based on specs
provided by manufacturer and may change without notice.
ElectricCars.net is not responsible for accuracy of
this information and does not guarantee the operational factors,
mechanical workings or financial outcome of the use of any
vehicle.
Layout, design
& Content Copyright © 1997-2010 ElectricCars.net. All rights
reserved Please read Terms
of Usage