I drove up to Maine over the Memorial Day holiday weekend. On the way up, I saw two cars drafting on the back of different tractor-trailers. I was reminded of how this was a problem during the Energy Crisis back in the 70’s. In an effort to increase gas mileage, you draft behind trucks and use less gas. Of course, you do it at great risk to your safety.
This is a technique of a new group of drivers called “Hypermilers”. Hypermilers go to extremes to get the best gas mileage possible out of their cars. Unfortunately, while increasing gas mileage is a worthy goal, these "Hypermilers" are doing it a dangerous way in many cases.
A couple of the more heinous tactics they use include:
- Drafting behind trucks. In this case, drivers will ride the bumper of a truck, usually on a highway at high speed.
- Avoid using brakes – Even in turns, even when stopping. Hypermilers will take turns as fast as possible in order not to lose momentum.
In addition to these techniques, which can be both illegal and dangerious, Hypermilers will drive well below the speed limit in an effort to increase mileage. This means that they may be on 93 – 128 – 495 going well below the speed limit.
I’m all for doing your best to increase your fuel mileage, but it should be done safely, in a manner that does not risk your safety or the safety of other drivers.
- Keep your tires properly inflated. Under inflated tires require more energy to run, over inflated tires will wear out much faster.
- Remove unnecessary weight. Take everything out of your car that isn’t needed.
- Don't drive aggressively. Start smoothly. Try to anticipate conditions ahead so that you don’t have to break quickly.
- Observe speed limits.
- Keep your car clean. When your car is dirty, the airflow is not as efficient and can affect gas mileage.
- Keep your car well maintained. You will get better mileage with filters that are not old and fluids that are not spent.
- Reduce use of air-conditioning.
- Consolidate your errands. Do as many errands on one trip as possible.
- Consider a more fuel efficient vehicle.
