Many drivers may not know how easy it can be to save on fuel—simply by practicing hypermiling! This is a technique that first gained momentum following the significant uptick in gas prices in the United States during the 2000s. Essentially, hypermiling is when drivers use certain techniques to prevent their vehicle from using too much fuel. Those who use the technique are known as “hypermilers,” and will usually make a few changes to their habits on the road to be more energy-efficient drivers.
Here’s everything you need to know about this simple yet effective fuel saving practice!
Avoiding Hitting the Brakes Too Often or Too Quickly
Frequent braking leads to fuel loss due to the increased effort necessary for the car to re-accelerate afterwards, with the transmission shifting to the car’s lowest gears and requiring more fuel use. When drivers are on the highway, braking too often can lead to a serious reduction in mileage, by as much as 33%.
With this in mind, drivers should be advised that slowing early and steadily is key to saving fuel. Keeping a minimum seven-second gap from the vehicle ahead can also help drivers prevent excessive braking.
Auto Mechanic School Students Should Understand the Importance of Taking Things Slow
When a car drives too fast it minimizes mileage, as increased acceleration leads to increased wind resistance. With this in mind, drivers should try to be conscious of cruising at moderate speeds most of the time, and should avoid unnecessary high speeds to save on fuel. Staying within the legally-mandated limits for speed is one hypermiling technique, and so is accurate anticipation of the road ahead. Students in auto mechanic training should also recognize the importance of avoiding idling for too long, as this will also lead to unnecessary fuel burn.
Regular Servicing Can Also Lead to More Energy-Efficient Driving
Any student in auto mechanic school can expect to see numerous vehicles sent to them for regular maintenance once they start their career. As it happens, taking a car in for servicing can also play a role in successful hypermiling. To achieve optimal energy-efficiency in a vehicle, it isn’t enough to simply change one’s overall driving habits, whether that’s braking economically, or considering other fuel-saving habits such as limiting cargo or avoiding excessive A/C use. Car owners must also be vigilant about routine car maintenance to ensure the vehicle is performing optimally. As an example, engines with dirty air filters can be detrimental to the vehicle’s efficiency. Tires that aren’t properly aligned and inflated, or that don’t contain the correct amount of pressure can also lead to excessive fuel use. It’s therefore key to take a vehicle in for routine maintenance so that a trained mechanic can give the vehicle the upkeep needed to maintain high levels of efficiency.
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