Drafting: This hypermiler technique is often poo-pooed on most gas-saving websites. Why? Because it can definitely be dangerous if left to the wrong driver and in the wrong circumstance. It has been proven that drafting a larger vehicle on the road (think RV, 18-wheeler) can increase your gas mileage over long stretches of road. However, to achieve said result you really do have to tailgate like the best of the douches. It is not the most pleasant hypermiler technique out there, but if you feel like being one of "those" guys, then go right ahead. Just make sure you pay attention to traffic changes and your drafter's rear lights.
Find a better route: In general, this hypermiler tip may also save your sanity. Instead of taking the same clogged, traffic-laden roads every day, do a bit of research and see if you can hit up a few back roads to save on time and gas. You may even discover a new coffee stop on the way (which could essentially defeat the gas-money savings, but who's counting when caffeine is involved?).
Crosswind barriers: This hypermiler technique kind of ties into the idea of drafting. It's all about wind resistance, and you'll want to choose the path of least resistance. So, aim for roads lined with trees or buildings. They do the job of blocking crosswinds, therefore giving you and your gas-saving vehicle a clear path to gas-saving super stardom.
Of course, these aren't the only tips and tricks you can use. From ensuring your oil is changed regularly to checking your tire pressure often, there are also maintenance tips you should adhere to keep your vehicle healthy and less likely to guzzle gas. Use cruise control when you can on the highway and consider turning your car off before you put it in park as this will save your engine turning over. But remember to put it into park (or neutral in the case of a manual transmission) once the engine is off, or you won't be turning your car on again after (or worse).
Saving money at the pumps really is on everyone's minds these days. And if walking, biking or hopping on the bus just isn't an option for you, then consider these hypermiler techniques to save you a few bucks at the pump. We promise not to call you granola.
Find a better route: In general, this hypermiler tip may also save your sanity. Instead of taking the same clogged, traffic-laden roads every day, do a bit of research and see if you can hit up a few back roads to save on time and gas. You may even discover a new coffee stop on the way (which could essentially defeat the gas-money savings, but who's counting when caffeine is involved?).
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| Photo: Matthieu Lambert/Auto123.com |
Crosswind barriers: This hypermiler technique kind of ties into the idea of drafting. It's all about wind resistance, and you'll want to choose the path of least resistance. So, aim for roads lined with trees or buildings. They do the job of blocking crosswinds, therefore giving you and your gas-saving vehicle a clear path to gas-saving super stardom.
Of course, these aren't the only tips and tricks you can use. From ensuring your oil is changed regularly to checking your tire pressure often, there are also maintenance tips you should adhere to keep your vehicle healthy and less likely to guzzle gas. Use cruise control when you can on the highway and consider turning your car off before you put it in park as this will save your engine turning over. But remember to put it into park (or neutral in the case of a manual transmission) once the engine is off, or you won't be turning your car on again after (or worse).
Saving money at the pumps really is on everyone's minds these days. And if walking, biking or hopping on the bus just isn't an option for you, then consider these hypermiler techniques to save you a few bucks at the pump. We promise not to call you granola.