Have you been getting some great tips for saving gas from the last few blogs? If not, that’s totally understandable. These hypermiling techniques are for the hardcore fuel saver and they really don’t save much unless you use all of them. But if you want more tips or just enjoy reading about the lengths people will go to, here are a few more.
1. Drafting
You probably already know about this one. If you don’t, here’s the short explanation. Drafting basically involves driving dangerously close to the rear of a semi-truck trailer. Because of the physics behind the wind resistance and other factors, the air kind of pulls your car along without your pushing on the accelerator as much. This is very dangerous, though, because your car needs to be only about 10 to 20 feet away from the bumper of the truck. That doesn’t really give you enough stopping time in case of an emergency.
2. Coasting to an auto-stop
This is generally for stick shifts, but you can use it with your manual transmission too. When you’re approaching a red light, put the car in neutral and turn the engine off. Some hypermilers use this tactic when going down steep hills too. But the reduced vehicle control when the engine is off makes this an irresponsible and even dangerous habit.
3. Shed any unwanted pounds
I don’t mean you should start going to Subway and eat only turkey sandwiches. I mean you should take anything out of your vehicle that doesn’t need to be there. The more stuff you have, the less efficient your gas mileage. Some hypermilers even remove the luggage rack because it can create air resistance as you go down the road.
4. Maintain your vehicle
Make sure to change the air filter on a regular basis and keep up with oil changes and tune-ups. Also, make sure to keep your tires properly balanced and inflated. All of these together contribute to your fuel economy.
You can use any or all of these tactics at your own risk with your certified Ford. Some of them are innocent, but others actually put you in danger. I don’t know if it’s really worth it just to save a few bucks a month on gasoline. But that decision is yours.
For new, used, or certified Ford vehicles please visit our Ford dealer in St. Louis MO or our Ford dealership in Waterloo, IL.
