It’s All About Fuel Economy

Everyone wants to make a gallon of gas last longer and cover more miles. Take a look at these tips to increase your gas efficiency, and keep them in mind next time you hit the road.

• Avoid aggressive driving. According to fueleconomy.gov, driving aggressively is the number-one culprit in lowering gas mileage. Government research has found that revving the engine or taking off from a stoplight too quickly “can lower your gas mileage by 33% at highway speeds and by 5% around town.” To put that in perspective, that’s like losing $0.11 to $0.74 cents per gallon.
• Watch the speed limit. Driving over the speed limit causes your gas mileage to decrease significantly. The experts at fueleconomy.gov note that “While each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed (or range of speeds), gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 50 mph is like paying an additional $0.16 per gallon for gas.” Driving within a safe speed will save money at the gas pump (and perhaps avoid a costly traffic ticket).
• Remove the extra gear. Heavy luggage, sporting equipment, and car racks weigh an automobile down. According to research, adding 100 pounds to the weight of your car can reduce your fuel economy by 1%. It’s a small percentage, but every cent adds up!
• Consider a New Car. Highly efficient cars, like the SMART car, can reduce fuel costs significantly. The gas-powered models boast 32 to 34 miles per gallon in the city and 39 miles per gallon on the highway. To eliminate fuel costs altogether (and your dependence on the international oil trade), opt for SMART’s electric version.

It’s always a good feeling to save a few dollars here and there. Perhaps your savings at the pump will pay for this week’s Starbucks run. Test drive a SMART car today at Baker Motor Company‘s Smart Center Charleston in West Ashley.