datalink1995

Save Money on Gas - Drive More Slowly

I have a 1998 Dodge Grand Caravan. Before the sharp rise in gas I was a “low end” speeder, exceeding the posted limits by about 5mph and getting 22.56 mpg on a combined city and interstate highway travel. I then slowed down to going 5 mph UNDER the posted limits on the interstate (staying in the right hand lane at all times) and maintaining the speed limit in town. My mpg went up to 24.7 mpg! That is 9.49% increase. I’m sure that on a long trip using interstate only I’ll get over 25 mpg.

I also did all of the other things in the article, like anticipating stop lights, a light foot on acceleration (if you have a tachometer, use it to get out of the low gears). What the author said about the most economical speed range was right on. 45 to 60 is the most economical.

Also make fewer trips by planning and grouping your trips around town.

And driving around your own city the time differences are insignificant.