173: Drive the car, don't let the car drive you by matthew

Every time you complete this action, you will reduce emissions by an estimated 2822 lbs. CO₂e.

→ This tip is part of the Shrink & Save program!

The EPA publishes vehicle fuel economy statistics in black and white, like cold, hard facts. But that belies the reality that the cars we drive are remarkably flexible machines. These numbers are averages, and like all averages, fuel economy figures simply represent the peak of the bell curve. Change a few things about the way you drive, and you’ll surprise yourself with gas mileage improvements you never thought possible, and save a pretty penny at the pump while you’re at it.

• Drive smoothly. The bursts of acceleration and braking that typify most of our driving styles are awful on gas mileage. Use cruise control on the highway, accelerate and brake slowly, give the guy in front of you some extra space to avoid having to brake every time he does, and approach red lights slowly to reduce the chance of having to come to a complete stop.
• Watch your speed. Fuel economy typically peaks at about 55 mph. Any faster, and you’ll see increasingly substantial reductions in your gas mileage due to aerodynamic drag.
• Inflate your tires. Check your tire pressure monthly to make sure you’re running at the maximum end of the range specified on the tire sidewall. Any lower, and you’re increasing friction with the road surface (which shortens tire life in addition to hurting fuel economy).
• Avoid idling. The notion that it uses more gas to start your car than to keep it idling is a holdover from the days before modern engines. If you’re stopped for more than 10 seconds, cut the juice.

The result? Sticking to the rules above will save you $385 a year at the pump, and shrink your carbon footprint by 2822 pounds of CO₂.

Shrink & Save:
… Intelligent heating and cooling, Drive the car, don’t let the car drive you, Get the dirt on clean laundry …

• Embed this