How To Be a Hypermiler

  • February 19, 2008
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A hypermiler does whatever they can to maximize gas mileage. There are safe ways to do this, and then there are extreme measures that are not worth the danger. We’re going to tell you the difference.

You Will Need

  • Driving skills
  • Patience
  • The ability to withstand other drivers’ rage
  • A hybrid car

Don’t even think about tailgating big rigs to catch their drafts or cutting the engine and coasting in neutral. Getting brag-worthy mileage isn’t worth risking your life.

How To Be a Hypermiler: Slow down

Step 1: Slow down

Stay within the speed limit. For every 5 miles per hour you drive above 55, your fuel efficiency is reduced by up to 10 percent.

How To Be a Hypermiler: Coast when you can

Step 2: Coast when you can

Coast when you can. It uses no fuel.

Try to park on hills, where you can get a rolling start.

How To Be a Hypermiler: Keep tires inflated

Step 3: Keep tires inflated

Keep your tires inflated at the maximum. The flatter the tire, the more it drags on the road.

Don’t do what some hypermilers do and over-inflate your tires; it could cause a blowout.

How To Be a Hypermiler: Use thin oil

Step 4: Use thin oil

Use the thinnest oil recommended for your car, get regular oil changes, and have the air filter changed when it gets dirty.

How To Be a Hypermiler: Avoid traffic

Step 5: Avoid traffic

Avoid fuel-wasting stop-and-go driving by taking the road less traveled.

How To Be a Hypermiler: Insulate your hood

Step 6: Insulate your hood

Install hood insulation to keep the engine warm, when it operates most efficiently.

How To Be a Hypermiler: AC off and windows up

Step 7: AC off and windows up

Keep the AC off and the windows up when possible.

The 2007 Hybridfest Miles Per Gallon Challenge winner Bill Kinney squeezed 168 miles per gallon out of his vehicle.

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Comments (3)

norgon

I don't own a car or drive. Or have a license. Is there a way I too can be a hypermiler?

over 3 years ago by norgon

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cybervanig2000

sorry i clicked spam by mistake. being a hypermiler does require a car or a motor vehicle of some kind. so you're out of luck there. But you can always influence other people to become hypermilers by passing on the info.

over 3 years ago by cybervanig2000

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saraangel1

yes if u get a car u ding dong

over 2 years ago by saraangel1

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