Hypermiling is defined as the set of methods done in order to maximize fuel economy and it is usually used in the North American context. The term hypermiling was coined and popularized by Wayne Gerdes, who happens to hold some records in gas mileage. Wayne Gerdes set records for the Acura MDX and Honda Accord by extending the cars’ MPG rating to 30 and 59, respectively. Hypermiling rose in popularity because it can be used in every vehicle; and more importantly, in light of the rising prices of gas. Hypermiling techniques can be categorized in four classes such as common, maintenance, and dangerous.
Common hypermiling involves several methods that are legal and can be done without altering the automobile. These are: avoiding jackrabbiting or the sudden starting and stopping, utilizing the cruise control features as much as possible (because it is more efficient), and minimizing the use of the air conditioning system. Most automotive experts say that for every 100 lbs. of extra load, the automobile loses 1-2 percent in fuel efficiency. Also, it is also better to turn off the car if stopping for a few minutes because idling only results in negative MPG efficiency. Furthermore, hypermilers also advise removing baggage that makes the automobile engine work harder by dragging extra load. Automobile accessories such as roof racks and bicycle racks affect the aerodynamics because of the added drag.
Another common hypermiling technique is by driving slow. That means driving at around 55 mph adds 15 percent of fuel efficiency compared to driving above that range. Lastly, automobile owners should be aware of the location where traffic congestion happens. As much as possible, they should look for alternative routes as well. Constant stopping and braking during heavy traffic is one of the reasons for lower fuel efficiency.
On the other hand, maintenance hypermiling involves methods such as properly inflating the tires in order to decrease rolling resistance and keeping air filter upgraded. However, there are some hypermiling techniques that are considered dangerous and illegal and shouldn’t be done at all costs. These dangerous techniques include drafting behind trucks, driving below the recommended speed limit, taking sharp curves (even at high speed), ignoring stop signs, and inflating the tires way above the prescribed limit. Automobile owners should be able to discern what is acceptable and what is not when it comes to the methods that they will use in hypermiling.
