How to drive green

by: CAGT    5 April 2008

For those who aren't racked by enough environmental guilt to buy a hybrid, driving green can mean any number of readily available and easy-to-implement solutions that can increase your petrol mileage.

Regular maintenance and aerodynamics play a part. But, according to fuel-efficiency experts, less aggressive driving has the most significant impact on your MPGs.

"Acceleration is the greatest factor," says Philip Reed, consumer advice editor for automotive Web site Edmunds.com. "It wastes energy and petrol and pollutes the environment."

For example, accelerating at speeds between 90 and 120 kilometres per hour on the highway can be especially wasteful since the car spends more energy to keep up with other autos. In general, slowing down even 8 to 16 kph can boost mileage dramatically.

"Driving faster won't get you there any quicker," Reed says. "Eventually you'll run into a red light and lose the ground you've gained. It's amazing the difference slowing down makes."

Of course, the kind of car you drive also makes a difference. At the end of the day, there's only so much you can do to increase the petrol mileage on an Escalade or Excursion.

Too rushed to slow down? Regular auto maintenance such as scheduled oil changes and tyre rotation may cost drivers initially, but the savings add up in the long run. Just keeping your tires inflated can boost your car's mileage anywhere from 3% to 4%, according to Ford's Vehicle Environment Engineering department.

Losing weight and increasing your car's aerodynamics also help you get the most of your miles. By losing accessories like roof racks and whale tails, drivers can greatly reduce drag. Need an excuse to clear out the boot? Clearing your car of clutter will lighten your load and improve your fuel economy. Sebastian Blanco, editor of autobloggreen.com, even suggests filling up on half a tank of gas at a time.

"Sure, you'll be filling up more often," he says, "but you'll be driving more on each gallon."

Techies might want to invest in the $169.95 Scan Gauge. It plugs into the On-Board Diagnostic port located under a car's dash, reads your car's computer and allows you to monitor fuel consumption, coolant temperature and engine speed, among other measures.

While keeping a constant watch on your car and backing off on the accelerator can be frustrating, if you aren't in the market for a hybrid, they may be the only options out there. Ignore the myths about fuel efficiency, say experts. Keeping your windows up to reduce drag does not increase mileage. Neither do mileage-enhancing pills.

"Most people want to save dollars, not sense," Reed says. "If you really make the effort, you can see substantial savings."