Saturday, April 4, 2009

Improving Mileage for Your Vehicle

Here is a list of things you can do to improve fuel efficiency and reduce automobile emissions.

*Rapid acceleration off the line, through traffic and when you are trying to beat that red light wastes gas and increases emissions. Maintain a smooth and even speed and you will get more miles to the gallon.
*Every car reaches its optimal fuel efficiency at a different speed. Usually it is around 60 MPH. According to the US Department of Energy, for every 5 miles an hour you drive over 60, is like spending an extra 20 cents on gas.
*Carrying heavy loads can increase gas millage. So, since it is Spring, you can go ahead and get rid of those sandbags you've been hauling around in your trunk. Although here in Iowa you may still want to hold onto them for a few more weeks!
*Idling for more than 1 or 2 minutes can burn more gas then starting the car. If you are going to idle for more than 1 minute it is best to turn the car off.

~Information taken from The Everything Green Living Book by Diane Gow McDilda

2 comments:

  1. Another excellent tip is to make sure the vehicle's tires are inflated properly, otherwise the car won't get its optimal gas mileage.

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  2. That is a great tip also, thanks Lynne.

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