Fuel Economy

Category: Education

Each day, U.S. drivers consume millions of barrels of petroleum to fuel their more than 250 million vehicles. Improving fuel economy in U.S. automobiles and trucks can reduce petroleum use, making our country less dependent on foreign oil. It can also save drivers money at the fuel pump and limit emissions.

The primary benefit of employing fuel economy measures is decreased fuel costs. Consumers and fleets can save $300 to $500 each year by driving the most fuel-efficient vehicles in a particular class. Over a vehicle's lifetime, fuel efficiency can add up to savings of thousands of dollars. Fuel-efficient models come in all shapes and sizes, so there's no need to sacrifice utility or size. To calculate the total cost of ownership and emissions for your current vehicles, please use the Clean Cities Vehicle Cost Calculator.

Consumers and fleets don't need to buy a new vehicle to increase their fuel economy. Proper maintenance and practical driving techniques can increase the fuel economy of their current vehicles.

The first thing to do is check your tire pressure. A vehicle running on tires that are properly inflated gets better gas mileage. Also be sure to keep your vehicle fluids up to standards. Next, consider your driving habits. Do you speed up to stop signs and hit the brakes hard? Do you make jackrabbit starts? If so, change your driving style and slow down sooner for stop lights and ease up to speed after the stop position. These simple changes can save you money and may even extend the life of your vehicle.

To appreciate these savings, try tracking your fuel economy for two weeks. The first week, check your odometer, then drive as you usually do. At the end of the week, note the amount of gas you used that week and how many miles you got to the gallon. The following week, check your odometer again, then employ the tips mentioned above. At the end of the second week, compare the mileage. Chances are you will see improved mileage during week two. Learn more in the Federal Trade Commission's fact sheet Gas Saving Products.

For more information on improving fuel economy, go to:

•    Fuel Economy Strategies for Light-Duty Vehicles

•    Fuel Economy Strategies for Heavy-Duty Vehicles

Sources: US Department of Energy