Hypermiling in the Genesis

[medhat]

Now it's certainly not the reason why I bought the V8, but I happened across an old issue of Popular Mechanics at work the other day, and was reading an article called "mileage tricks that really work" or something like that. One of the "tricks" they mentioned was the use of a vacuum gauge, essentially the thing that gives the "instant mpg" display on the instrument panel. I figured, "what the heck", because I never really had a strong preference for what display was there anyways (still can't figure a reason to use the elapsed time setting). Well, 2 tanks later, I'm surprised to see my "average MPG" has gone from 19-20 to 22-23 with no other changes! Popular mechanics says (and I agree) it has a lot to do with subtle conditioning of the driver (me) to keep the instant MPG by making it a little mini-competition. Hey, it works. Anyone else try it?

 

[Galbi]

I've tried tail gating 18 wheelers and using the "vacuum" created behind them to gain some aerodynamics points. It really does help with the fuel mileage. (However, be very careful IF you do as it is quite dangerous)

Let off the gas pedal when your approaching a stop light.
Coast down a hill with no gas pedal.
Try using some "eco routes" with as few stops as possible.
Accelerate slowly and stop slowly.
Fill up gas in the mornings or evenings.
Maintain those tire pressures every week.
Throw out excess weight in the car.
Go on a diet. Seriously.
Do multiple errands all on one drive.


Basically, if you think of gas as gold, your whole perspective of driving changes. And to be honest, this "game" is actually quite fun and challenging.

 

[wallymn]

Neutral really helps. the tranny wants to a) slow the car and b)keep the revs high, by shifting to neutral and coasting on downhils/stop signs,

Best MPG rating I have is 31.3 on a tank.

rules I play by....

1. don't hold up traffic...

2. keep my normal cruise speed (related to rule 1).

3. no tailgating...

 

[bobad]

it has a lot to do with subtle conditioning of the driver (me)

I know exactly what you mean by "conditioning".

Another mileage trick that works is to pretend you have a large watermelon in the trunk. The object is to not bang the melon against any of the 4 sides of your trunk, making a huge mess in your Genny. Braking is very important to mileage too. Hard braking wastes a lot of energy (fuel).

Not only will your mileage soar, but your tires and brakes will last much longer.

A G meter would work too. A smooth graphic display that moves a ball from the center of the gage toward the direction of the G forces would become very intuitive and save lots of gas, brakes, and tires.

 

[STREETS]

I always carry a rope...and when on the highway, lasso a car in front and let them pull me along. Boosts mileage greatly! YEEHAW! lol

I also do the ridding of extra weight trick. The wife sure tumbles at 65 when pushed out the door.

 

[scottdk]

i also do the ridding of extra weight trick. The wife sure tumbles at 65 when pushed out the door.

ha ha ha ha!!!!!!!!!