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2009-04-14 Hypermiling becoming popular for increasing fuel efficiency As fuel prices hit record highs around the world, American drivers are turning to driving techniques popular in poorer countries in order to save petrol.
While certain methods to save fuel are well known, proponents of a more radical variety of fuel saving techniques known as 'hypermiling' claim that these measures can improve gas milage by as much as 100%.
While some critics argue that most hypermiling methods do not actually save fuel, many drivers in poorer countries have been using these techniques to save money for ages.
Hypermiling includes techniques such as pumping tires higher than manufacturer recommended pressures to their maximum rating, using low viscosity engine oil and the more controversial practice of driving closely behind other vehicles at high speed to reduce drag.
Other techniques include careful speed control, consideration of octane levels in fuel, slow acceleration, turning off the vehicle while driving and at traffic lights, keeping the vehicle as light as possible, and avoiding anything that increases drag.
Hypermiling has increased in popularity partly due to the increase of electric vehicles, which usually have advanced on-board trip computers showing fuel consumption, and allow the engine to be easily turned on and off during driving.
Authorities have warned that some hypermiling techniques can increase the risk of accidents.
Find more information on hypermiling in Wikipedia |
