Hypermiling Saves on Gas...Who Knew?

Let’s be honest, you probably never heard of hypermiling, but you have been doing it your entire driving career. According to the New Oxford American Dictionary, hypermiling is that act of using different driving techniques to maximize fuel economy. It was even named “word of the year” by the dictionary.

Hypermilers attempt to exceed the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimated fuel efficiency for their vehicles by employing a variety of driving habits. It has even become a cult sport, as contests have been held to see who can get the best miles per gallon with a vehicle on a selected course.

With today’s economy, and the steady rise of gas prices, we can all learn to become hypermilers. Here are some of the techniques used by hypermilers.

• Hypermilers use an anticipatory driving method for efficiently maintaining speed. Basically, drivers will accelerate slowly, and coast for as long as possible before using their brake. This technique is often called the “pulse and glide” method. By using this technique, drivers are minimizing fuel consumption while in motion.

• Stay back from other vehicles so you don’t have to brake as often. Make sure you do so within reason, you don’t want to cause an accident.

• By properly inflating your car’s tires, you can save approximately 1-2 miles per gallon and extend the life of your tires.

• Always make sure your gas cap is tightly closed after fueling up. Once it’s closed, turn it FOUR more times to ensure no gas evaporates from an otherwise insecure cap.

• Always make sure to purchase the correct fuel for your car. Check your car’s manual for its required fuel octane level. This will ensure your car maximizes the use of fuel.

• Reduce your resistance while driving; remove any luggage or ski racks from your car while they are not in use.

Hypermilers have come under attack for using unsafe and sometimes aggressive driving practices. We recommend you follow the preceding techniques with caution and with an active concern for your safety, as well as the safety of drivers around you. Compare techniques and automobile performances at Fuelly, a social network completely for hypermilers. And be sure to check out the fuel economy of our vehicles at Basil Resale Center on Sheridan.

Matt Shapiro