August 7, 2008

Bad Choices of Hypermilling Solutions


by Patrick G. Moore

The are many “hypermilers” that can come up with many thousands of creative solutions to increase gas mileage and save money on fuel. However, there are some tips or solutions you need to watch out. This is due to some of the tips that are highly dangerous. It is not worth to risk your life on the road. Bear in mind that safety comes first. No matter how important it is for you to save fuel and increase gas mileage, always think about the safety first.

Hypermilling simply means the techniques that drivers use to maximize the fuel efficiency of their automobile. This is because fuel is being used more than normal rate when the driving skills and behaviors are wrong.

The tips that you should avoid are:

Drive through stop signs. It is believed that you use up more fuel when you brake frequently. However, when it comes to driving on the road, safety is more important than anything else. If you just drive through the stop signs, you are putting yourself at risk for car accidents not to mention getting caught as it is illegal.

Tailgating large trucks such as those 18-wheelers. This is the worst tip at all. We all know how big is the 18-wheelers compared to cars. Why want to tailgate the large truck? You are putting yourself in danger.

Shutting off the engine while the car is still moving especially when it is moving downhill. Yes, it can save fuel but if there is an emergency, you are not able to accelerate or slow down which will increase the chance of accident. Imagine when you are going downhill and there is a point when you need to brake, and you lose control.

Over inflating your tires can reduce the tire surface contact with the road but you will lose grip and if there is a need to brake, you might lose control. It is best to inflate the tires to the maximum rated PSI but never go overboard.

Removing the side mirrors is said to be able to add another mile to a gallon of fuel. I wonder just how true it is because as far as I am concerned, side mirrors are very important in driving a car. You need to use the side mirrors to look at the cars from the side ways.

Check the wind forecast before you drive. If you need to check the wind then perhaps you should get yourself a sail boat. Seems to be a better choice if you are want to save fuel on the boat.

Not all the tips are worthy to try no matter how desperate you want to save money and fuel. Think before you act on the tips. I am sure your life is more important than money or fuel.

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Filed under Finance by Patrick G. Moore

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