Ten Tips To Maximize Your Hybrid's Fuel Efficiency
January 7th, 2009

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With a compact, yet highly efficient engine, the hybrid car is becoming increasingly popular for its numerous advantages. One such benefit is the car’s knack for fuel efficiency. As gas prices continue to fluctuate, car owners are searching for ways to maximize fuel reserves to the fullest. While every automobile is capable of achieving better gas mileage, there are certain tips and tricks for the hybrid that can assist in your conservation efforts.

1. Periodically turn off the engine: A hybrid car has an alternate power supply that consists of batteries and an electric motor. For this reason, the hybrid does not have to use the gasoline engine at all times, and can turn off this engine occasionally. An opportune occasion to switch off the gasoline engine is while stopped at a traffic light.

2. Minimize air-conditioning usage: Studies have revealed that use of air-conditioning systems in hot temperatures can raise fuel consumption by at least 20 percent. Fuel efficiency can be improved in the summer months by minimizing air-conditioning usage, and utilizing the hybrid car’s flow-through ventilation system. It is also wise to make use of air vents to circulate cool air as much as possible. This is especially helpful with highway driving. If air-conditioning usage is a necessity, set the controls to a moderate level, and then switch the system off after the automobile has cooled.

3. Low-rolling resistance tires are crucial: The standard automobile is equipped with tires that are designed to supply proper traction and a smooth, comfortable driving experience. However, because of a large amount of drag, most automobile tires do not provide the highest quality of fuel efficiency. The hybrid is designed with a unique variety of tire that is sturdier and inflated to a higher air pressure than the traditional automobile tire. This causes less drag, and better gas mileage.

4. Regularly check tire pressure: Research has shown that gas mileage can improve by approximately 3.5 percent if tires are correctly inflated. Some hybrid owners choose to go slightly beyond the recommended air pressure amount, while still staying below the maximum pressure range. Over inflation can cause rough tire wear and handling difficulties. Tire pressure should be gauged on a routine basis, checking for leaks or proof of embedded objects. Wintertime especially calls for regular inspections, as cold weather can cause a sharp decline in air pressure.

5. Properly maintain both car and engine: Keeping your hybrid in quality condition not only minimizes fuel and money costs, it reduces the threat of dangerous emissions. Dirty oil, clogged air filters, and overall neglect to other general hybrid maintenance can contribute to a decrease in fuel efficiency. Replacing clogged air filters can increase a hybrid’s fuel efficiency by almost 10 percent, while also shielding the engine from impurities. A routine tune-up when the car is not working properly or has not passed an emissions test has been known to greatly improve gas mileage. Spark plugs should also be correctly maintained; make sure they are firing properly, and replace them when necessary.

6. Combine errands and trips: Combining errands and short trips together is an easy way to maximize your hybrid’s fuel efficiency. Numerous short trips that begin from a cold engine generate two times as much fuel as a longer trip covering the same exact region when the engine is already warm. Linking errands together in a similar part of town saves both time and money. This method also cuts down on the wear of your hybrid. Try car pools when possible, or share driving responsibilities with others.

7. Drive slower: Most drivers tend to drive 5 to 10 miles over the posted speed limit. However, keeping within the limit can have a considerable impact on the fuel efficiency of a hybrid car. Why? The aerodynamic drag on some cars increases dramatically the faster it is driven. The higher the speed, the less fuel efficient the car will be.

8. Drive gently: Destructive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking unnecessarily wastes fuel. These harmful driving practices lower the gas mileage of your hybrid by more than 30 percent. Think about using overdrive gears on the interstate to decrease engine speed and reduce fuel usage.

9. Keep a constant speed: Speeding your hybrid up uses energy, parts of which are depleted when the car slows down again. Keeping a constant speed assists in improving fuel efficiency. Utilizing cruise control on the interstate can help in greatly in efficiency, and usually reduces funds spent on gas.

10. A fuel consumption gauge is a must: A fuel consumption gauge display shows how your driving affects your car’s fuel efficiency. Numerous cars are equipped with these gauges, however if your hybrid is not, you can buy one that plugs into your car. There are a variety of gauge displays now available for purchase.

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