by A.W. Berry

Created on: July 03, 2007

All vehicles come with a standard fuel economy rating such as 40 miles per gallon but this mileage per consumption ratio is only based on pre-standardized driving conditions such as highway driving at 55 mph for example or "normal city driving conditions". Believe it or not, there are a lot of things that can influence this fuel economy for the better and over the life of your vehicle.

Fuel Type:

With the advent of ethanol, many vehicle engines can run with ratios as high as 15% ethanol 85% gasoline. Any car can operate on a 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline mix and 4 million U.S. automobiles can perform on the 15% level. (http://grist.org) Where available, bio-fuel, gasoline combinations can improve gas mileage. Ethanol is becoming increasing popular in the United States as a strong lobby and movement exists for the use of corn in the production of these biofuels.

Driving Style:

We all have different driving styles; some of us are impatient with slow drivers and accelerate and brake often while others are more consistent with speed limits, traffic lights and stop signs. How we drive affects how our cars use gas. Accelerating often uses more gas than driving at more constant speeds. Driving the speed limit and safely behind trucks on the highway uses less gas and counters wind friction reducing gas consumption. Generally, cautious driving is more economical than aggressive driving because it is less demanding on the car.

Vehicle Features:

Cars and SUV's equipped with cruise control no only save legs from muscle pain over long distance but also provide a consistent speed for engines which improves mileage. Shifting gears at the right times also optimizes engine uses and improves efficiency.

Automobile Maintenance:

Automobile maintenance is very important in keeping gas mileage at its best. Regular oil changes prevent engine wear and improve viscosity allowing the engine to work less tirelessly and perform better. Also, having tires inflated at manufacturer indicated settings helps maintain both road safety and gas mileage. Proper tire PSI levels is also beneficial in the different seasons. During the winter a lower psi improves traction and in the summer when tires get hot there should be some space left for expanding molecules within the tire as they heat up. Engine maintenance such as tune ups also prevent inefficient engine use and further prevent unideal gas mileage.

Car Type:

While this last point is obvious it is important. Not all vehicles were created equal when it comes to gas mileage. Some maintain there gas mileage over many years and minimal maintenance while others quickly decline in efficiency. Still others were never efficient to start with. Selecting a car that has good fuel economy is one of the single most effective steps to conserving fuel.

Conserving gas mileage is a great way to be environmentally friendly and save a little money not to mention help one's vehicle stay up to speed and in better condition. By following the above recommendations vehicle owners may be more aware and better equipped to manage vehicle gas consumption in a more efficient way.

Source(s):

http://grist.org/news/maindish/2006/12 /05/cars/
http://www.energy.iastate.edu/news/pr/pr-ga smileage.html

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