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Finding ways to fight gas prices
Oil prices are flashing back to what they were in 1973.
In response to the increase, President Richard Nixon lowered the highway speed limits for energy conservation. It could be debated whether it should be done today.
It’s hard to say whether changing the speed limit would be effective, said Milivoje Kostic, associate professor of mechanical engineering.
“Things are changing the roads, cars are better,” Kostic said.
For every mile people drive over 60 mph, it costs an additional 10 cents more for gas, Kostic said.
The policy change was found to be ineffective, whereupon legislators returned the speed limit to 65 mph in 1977.
Many legislators today are reluctant to lower the speed limit as a means to save gas.
“The slower you drive, the better gas economy you get,” said Don Sebby, owner of the Sebby University Shell. “But everyone needs to bust the speed limit by 10 mph.”
Despite the need for speed, drivers can still increase their gas mileage in simple ways that are often overlooked.
Kostic said one way is to avoid aggressive driving.
“Accelerating fast or breaking fast – that’s where you waste a lot of energy,” Kostic said.
Drivers should also avoid short trips. The first five minutes of driving are the least efficient, until the car warms up, Kostic said.
The maintenance of a car is also very important.
Drivers should check their fuel injection and clean the air filter, said Adam Cholewiak, a mechanic at Meineke Car Care Center.
“A basic tune-up will keep the car running efficiently,” Cholewiak said.
Tires should be inflated to the commonly recommend amount of 35 pounds per square inch and even little things like waxing a car can help.
“Put a slick finish on any car and the aerodynamics is going to improve,” Sebby said. “It will go through the air easier and look better, run better and feel better.”
When on the highway, drivers should roll up their windows and also remove excess weight from the vehicle.
If drivers keep their RPMs under 2,000 they are more likely to get the best gas economy.
“Compared to Toyota, Honda, smaller cars average more than a larger vehicle,” Sebby said.
The common myth that going more than 95 mph would actually save gas because of better wind resistance is something Sebby said he wouldn’t believe.
The RPMs would be in the 3,000-4,000s, which would result in poor fuel economy.
The best way to save gas is to buy a hybrid. Although they are more expensive Kostic believes that they are worth it.
“As time goes on, gas prices will increase substantially,” Kostic said.economy.
The best way to save gas is to buy a hybrid. Although they are more expensive Kostic believes that they are worth it.
“As time goes on, gas prices will increase substantially,” Kostic said.
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