Hypermiling - you read it here first...
With the cost of fuel rocketing in the US, those guys across the pond have come up with the new craze of hypermiling, or fuel-efficient driving to you and me. Some fanatical hypermilers have been accused of potentially dangerous practices, such as drafting (slipstreaming) behind trucks, overinflating tyres and turning off the engine while coasting down hills (so using up your brake and steering servo capacity).
While economical driving is nothing new to us, we reckon a refresher on getting the best mpg from your truck, van or car is always worthwhile.
To kick things off we've had Andy Salter and Colin Barnett participate in the latest MPG Marathon organised by FleetWorld. Behind the wheel of a Fiat Fiorino the two lads managed a fuel card-crunching 78mpg from the little van, although that wasn't enough to top the MPG van crown - one of the participants managed 84mpg from a Citroen Nemo.
Never ones to miss out on the latest craze, BigLorryBlog thought it should get in on the act and come up with out top 10 tips for maximising your fuel efficiency. Catch us if you can...
With the cost of fuel rocketing in the US, those guys across the pond have come up with the new craze of hypermiling, or fuel-efficient driving to you and me. Some fanatical hypermilers have been accused of potentially dangerous practices, such as drafting (slipstreaming) behind trucks, overinflating tyres and turning off the engine while coasting down hills (so using up your brake and steering servo capacity).
While economical driving is nothing new to us, we reckon a refresher on getting the best mpg from your truck, van or car is always worthwhile.
To kick things off we've had Andy Salter and Colin Barnett participate in the latest MPG Marathon organised by FleetWorld. Behind the wheel of a Fiat Fiorino the two lads managed a fuel card-crunching 78mpg from the little van, although that wasn't enough to top the MPG van crown - one of the participants managed 84mpg from a Citroen Nemo.
Never ones to miss out on the latest craze, BigLorryBlog thought it should get in on the act and come up with out top 10 tips for maximising your fuel efficiency. Catch us if you can...
- Ensure your journey is essential - no point burning the fuel if you don't need to
- Keep a record of your fuel and mileage after each re-fuel - you've got to monitor it to manage it
- Plan your route - avoid getting lost or making wrong turns
- Lose the aggression - harsh braking or accelerating wastes fuel
- Travel in the highest gear possible without labouring the engine
- Ensure your tyres are at the correct pressure - tyre pressures should be checked with cold tyres
- Keep your windows closed
- Use cruise control where possible (but not in town)
- Make block gear changes when practicable
- Avoid leaving the engine on idle for long periods of time
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