There was a time when a Chrysler's performance,quality and technology was unquestioned.Chrysler Corporation was one of the most successful carmakers in the world until the early 1990s.Gradually,competition grew tougher and Chrysler's dominance over automobile industry faded.However,people still consider a Chrysler as the mark of class and luxury.Perhaps,this is the reason behind the large market for preowned Chrysler.
Chrysler's inclination towards heavy fuel consuming vehicles put it on the back gear against increasing fuel prices and environmental awareness.Now there is a ray of hope with Chrysler's completely new lot of fuel-efficient hybrid sedans and SUVs.Here are some quick notes on Chrysler's latest performance oriented fuel-efficient cars.
2009 Chrysler 300
With the 2009 Chrysler 300 the carmaker has brought the new generation of Chrysler cars in the market.The new 300 gets an even more powerful V8.The big sedan shares structural similarities with Dodge Charger.All five trims of 300 - LX, Touring, Limited,300C and 300C STR8 are available with rear wheel drive.While the basic LX has a 178Hp 2.7L V6 the moresophisticated version 2009 Chrysler 300C SRT8 gets a huge 425 Horse power thrust from a super 6.1L Hemi V8 engine.
Deploying the next generation interactive transfer case technology also gives 2009 Chrysler 300 an extra edge in the competitive market.The new technology,a part of BorgWarner's Torque-on-Demand(R) product portfolio,optimizes the all-wheel drive performance.In addition to transfer case hardware,BrogWarner also provides the required software controls for vehicle's level integration.Therefore,it is evident from the 2009 Chrysler 300 reviews that both auto experts and enthusiasts have reasons to see good marketing prospect for the new Chrysler 300.
2009 Chrysler Aspen
The new premium sports utility from Chrysler,Chrysler Aspen possesses topnotch comfort features,eye-catching design and innovative technology.Exuding opulence Aspen offers unique benefits as a full-size luxury SUV to its buyers.A HEMI V8 powered four-wheel drive Aspen can tow up to 8,700 pounds and offer 22mpg on average.
Inside,state-of-the-art comfort features includes air conditioning;flexible front and rear LED lamps;MyGIG Entertainment System with navigation;overhead console with HomeLink Universal Transceiver and Electronic Vehicle Information Center;floor console with power accessory outlet and driver's seat with power memory and many more.
Aspen's unmatched suspension setup using coil springs and a Watt's Linkage fitted rear axle makes it durable and reliable off the road.Standard safety features are Chrysler's exclusive with Trailer Sway Control,ParkSense® Rear Park Assist system,ParkPreview™ rear view camera;tire pressure monitoring and 3-row side air bags with roll sensing.Read 2009 Chrysler Aspen reviews to know what you get in detail.
2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid
If you are thinking of a big Chrysler that will provide you with lot of room and comfort and save your money on fuel at the same time,there is no better option than the 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid.This HEMI Hybrid version of Aspen is the first hybrid car from Chrysler.The 5.7L hybrid powertrain delivers 385Hp. HEMI allows Chrysler Aspen Hybrid slow cruising on 4-cylinder mode and switch to V8 mode as and when more power is required.Ensuring seamless transition between the two modes hybrid powertrain largely improves fuel economy.
The system incorporates auto-transmission technology with a patented hybrid- electric drive system and a sophisticated controller to determine when to change the mode.Chrysler demands it to be the world's first two-mode full hybrid system.With this sophisticated hybrid power system, developed in collaboration with General Motors,Mercedes-Benz and The BMW Group Chrysler is expected to regain its reputation in the car market.
About the Author
Andrew White is a self-published author and automobile expert.She writes on latest Chrysler models like 2009 Chrysler Aspen Hybrid as well as preowned Chrysler vehicles.For more Chrysler reviews,she recommends you to visit: http://www.caranddriver.com/.
Sunday, April 5, 2009
General Motors - Planning for the Future by Going Backwards
Falling Sales, job cuts and the threat of bankruptcy, just where did it all go so wrong for General Motors? Many people think it can be traced back to the final days of the EV1, when General Motors effectively killed a goose that had the potential to lay golden eggs. By 2003 GM had recalled and crushed all but a few EV1's, those that weren't were placed in museums. If this act of recklessness had never happened General Motors could now be a world leader in clean vehicle technology. Instead, they find themselves way behind their competitors, trying to catch up with Toyota and Honda in the production of hybrid vehicles, most notably with the Chevy Volt.
Rick Wagoner has gone on record as saying his biggest regret was "axing the EV1 electric-car program and not putting the right resources into hybrids. It didn't affect profitability, but it did affect image." An image that with hindsight has been irrevocably tarnished and as a result Wagoner paid the price with his job. Had GM continued to develop the EV1, the Chevy Volt or possibly an even better design would have been on our roads for years now and the one time world leader of the car market may have found itself in a much better situation to deal with the present downturn.
General Motors made a huge mistake in crushing the EV1's, but were they solely to blame for the demise of this burgeoning technology? Many feel that General Motors intentionally sabotaged the prospects of the EV1, aided and abetted by state legislators, oil companies and even the government, but surely they found themselves in an invidious position. If the EV1 was as good as has been claimed, it could easily have been disastrous for General Motors. In designing and building a clean electric car, they were in effect showcasing just how unclean and polluting the rest of the cars they produced were. If this was the situation then GM would have found itself with just one product. But it was a product that was leading the world. Leading in a direction that may have helped to reduce our dependence on oil, a dependence that has caused conflicts worldwide.
For whatever reason General Motors chose to kill off the EV1, they now find themselves in a dire situation, they designed and built an electric car, a car that appealed to a market, a car that worked. When the Chevy Volt is launched, if it ever is, GM will have to win these people over again. The same people who had their hopes crushed when GM crushed all those EV1's.
So today GM finds itself looking backwards, backwards to electricity and clean technology, looking backwards to the good old days, good old days when they led, not followed. If only they'd had hindsight, or even more importantly, courage, things may have turned out very different. Their image would have been a lot healthier and their profits… well they certainly couldn't be any worse than they are today.
About the Author
Dave Foord is the content writer for a number of websites. If you are in the market for a cheap new car take a look at the new Honda Insight or the new Toyota Prius.
Rick Wagoner has gone on record as saying his biggest regret was "axing the EV1 electric-car program and not putting the right resources into hybrids. It didn't affect profitability, but it did affect image." An image that with hindsight has been irrevocably tarnished and as a result Wagoner paid the price with his job. Had GM continued to develop the EV1, the Chevy Volt or possibly an even better design would have been on our roads for years now and the one time world leader of the car market may have found itself in a much better situation to deal with the present downturn.
General Motors made a huge mistake in crushing the EV1's, but were they solely to blame for the demise of this burgeoning technology? Many feel that General Motors intentionally sabotaged the prospects of the EV1, aided and abetted by state legislators, oil companies and even the government, but surely they found themselves in an invidious position. If the EV1 was as good as has been claimed, it could easily have been disastrous for General Motors. In designing and building a clean electric car, they were in effect showcasing just how unclean and polluting the rest of the cars they produced were. If this was the situation then GM would have found itself with just one product. But it was a product that was leading the world. Leading in a direction that may have helped to reduce our dependence on oil, a dependence that has caused conflicts worldwide.
For whatever reason General Motors chose to kill off the EV1, they now find themselves in a dire situation, they designed and built an electric car, a car that appealed to a market, a car that worked. When the Chevy Volt is launched, if it ever is, GM will have to win these people over again. The same people who had their hopes crushed when GM crushed all those EV1's.
So today GM finds itself looking backwards, backwards to electricity and clean technology, looking backwards to the good old days, good old days when they led, not followed. If only they'd had hindsight, or even more importantly, courage, things may have turned out very different. Their image would have been a lot healthier and their profits… well they certainly couldn't be any worse than they are today.
About the Author
Dave Foord is the content writer for a number of websites. If you are in the market for a cheap new car take a look at the new Honda Insight or the new Toyota Prius.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Environmentally Friendly Cars - Hybrid Cars Come of Age yet?
As in buying any new gadget, you need to explore both the technological advancement as well as the drawbacks. Today, we shall focus on answering the various common misnomers about hybrid cars, which are key concerns preventing conventional car buyers to switch to hybrid cars.
Hybrid Cars Are Merely More Environmentally Friendly, That Is All To It.
Hybrid cars are perceived as more expensive than conventional cars, but the fuel efficiency and environmentally friendliness is lost to the potential hybrid car buyers. There is an overall lack of understanding of the full impact of being environmentally friendly could greatly slow the eventually devastation of environmental disasters in time to come. Immediate tasks Hybrid Car manufacturers is education for conventional car drivers, potential hybrid car buyers, what with the only about 50 percent of consumers willing to buy a hybrid any time soon from one of the industry survey.
Hybrid Cars Technology Too New to Give Meaningful Performance Reviews.
As a potential hybrid car buyer, you would be interested in know the feedback of current owners of hybrid cars and compare the various brands and models in the market. This might be difficult as Hybrid Car which has debut simply a few years ago. Check out independent consumer reports, car blogs and car forums where Hybrid Car owners have been seen to contribute actively with their experience in hybrid cars so you could benefit from the true opinions often times.
Hybrid Cars Technology is Still Developing.
It is so true for the above statement, but it is critical to know that the car manufacturing companies are busy setting up industry strict standards and guidelines to standardize the the hybrid car technology. Hybrid Car manufacturers have cumulatively set standard 8 year warranties for the car batteries and other parts, enhancing the confidence of hybrid car owners or potential car buyers. You would not even see 8 year warranties for car batteries in your conventional cars, which says much for the vouch of confidence.
Owning a hybrid car is quite equivalent to owning a new lifestyle, a new driving habit and a new environmentally friendly perspective in life. This will take adjusting effort and time. But it is indeed a great feeling to own a great piece of green technology which we can call our pride and joy at any point in time.
Check out more research on Hybrid Cars and Environmentally Friendly Cars at my site.
About the Author
Joey Lee has 17 years of business & marketing experience in the Insurance & Banking Industry, holds an Executive MBA, and a Platinum Ezine Author. Get the latest eco friendly hybrid green cars info at Hybrids & Environmentally Friendly Cars and much more at CngCar.org
Hybrid Cars Are Merely More Environmentally Friendly, That Is All To It.
Hybrid cars are perceived as more expensive than conventional cars, but the fuel efficiency and environmentally friendliness is lost to the potential hybrid car buyers. There is an overall lack of understanding of the full impact of being environmentally friendly could greatly slow the eventually devastation of environmental disasters in time to come. Immediate tasks Hybrid Car manufacturers is education for conventional car drivers, potential hybrid car buyers, what with the only about 50 percent of consumers willing to buy a hybrid any time soon from one of the industry survey.
Hybrid Cars Technology Too New to Give Meaningful Performance Reviews.
As a potential hybrid car buyer, you would be interested in know the feedback of current owners of hybrid cars and compare the various brands and models in the market. This might be difficult as Hybrid Car which has debut simply a few years ago. Check out independent consumer reports, car blogs and car forums where Hybrid Car owners have been seen to contribute actively with their experience in hybrid cars so you could benefit from the true opinions often times.
Hybrid Cars Technology is Still Developing.
It is so true for the above statement, but it is critical to know that the car manufacturing companies are busy setting up industry strict standards and guidelines to standardize the the hybrid car technology. Hybrid Car manufacturers have cumulatively set standard 8 year warranties for the car batteries and other parts, enhancing the confidence of hybrid car owners or potential car buyers. You would not even see 8 year warranties for car batteries in your conventional cars, which says much for the vouch of confidence.
Owning a hybrid car is quite equivalent to owning a new lifestyle, a new driving habit and a new environmentally friendly perspective in life. This will take adjusting effort and time. But it is indeed a great feeling to own a great piece of green technology which we can call our pride and joy at any point in time.
Check out more research on Hybrid Cars and Environmentally Friendly Cars at my site.
About the Author
Joey Lee has 17 years of business & marketing experience in the Insurance & Banking Industry, holds an Executive MBA, and a Platinum Ezine Author. Get the latest eco friendly hybrid green cars info at Hybrids & Environmentally Friendly Cars and much more at CngCar.org
Convert Your Car To Run On Water
Tips to Help You Save Gas Consumption
With the constant increase in oil prices, car owners get more concerned about how they can save gas and money while driving. This article gives you tips on how you can reduce your gas consumption and save money.
Always have your car tuned-up regularly. If you car's engine is in bad operating condition it will utilize more gasoline. Vehicle maintenance will help your car's engine run efficiently thus improving your expenditure of money. Clean or change congested air filters to enhance your fuel mileage by as much as 10%.
• Maintain a steady rate when driving you car. Frequent stops when driving add to your gas expenditure by as much as 30%. Imagine if you spend $3.00 per gallon, you lose $9.00 for every 10 gallons of gas that you consume. Avoid sudden stops and abrupt increases in speed. Make use of "cruise control" when you are driving on the highway. This will allow you to maintain a steady speed and avoid additional gas consumption.
Another way to keep a steady rate is by avoiding heavy traffic areas. Also avoid unnecessary use of the clutch.
• Schedule buying your gas during the cool hours. It is ideal to purchase your fuel early in the morning or during the night. You will acquire extra for your cash during these cooler hours.
• Close you car windows when you are driving on the highway. When your windows are closed the aerodynamics are better and it lessens the drag on the vehicle. Gaping windows cause extra friction and reduce your car's mileage.
• Minimize the use of air conditioners when it is not necessary. Use your car's vents if possible. If you really need to use your air conditioner, try to set it as low as possible. Do not operate your air conditioner with your car windows open - it uses more gas this way.
• Do not let your engine idle when not driving. Turn off you car's engine when you need to wait for a time longer than a minute. If your car is idle for more that one minute, it uses the same amount of gas that you would use when you are restarting the engine.
• Lessen your car's load. The heavier the car, the more gas it will consume.
• Check if tires inflated accordingly. Tires with appropriate pressure save fuel better than when under-filled or over-filled with air.
About the Author
Odell Kaufman writes regularly about computers related topics. I hope you enjoy this article.
With the constant increase in oil prices, car owners get more concerned about how they can save gas and money while driving. This article gives you tips on how you can reduce your gas consumption and save money.
Always have your car tuned-up regularly. If you car's engine is in bad operating condition it will utilize more gasoline. Vehicle maintenance will help your car's engine run efficiently thus improving your expenditure of money. Clean or change congested air filters to enhance your fuel mileage by as much as 10%.
• Maintain a steady rate when driving you car. Frequent stops when driving add to your gas expenditure by as much as 30%. Imagine if you spend $3.00 per gallon, you lose $9.00 for every 10 gallons of gas that you consume. Avoid sudden stops and abrupt increases in speed. Make use of "cruise control" when you are driving on the highway. This will allow you to maintain a steady speed and avoid additional gas consumption.
Another way to keep a steady rate is by avoiding heavy traffic areas. Also avoid unnecessary use of the clutch.
• Schedule buying your gas during the cool hours. It is ideal to purchase your fuel early in the morning or during the night. You will acquire extra for your cash during these cooler hours.
• Close you car windows when you are driving on the highway. When your windows are closed the aerodynamics are better and it lessens the drag on the vehicle. Gaping windows cause extra friction and reduce your car's mileage.
• Minimize the use of air conditioners when it is not necessary. Use your car's vents if possible. If you really need to use your air conditioner, try to set it as low as possible. Do not operate your air conditioner with your car windows open - it uses more gas this way.
• Do not let your engine idle when not driving. Turn off you car's engine when you need to wait for a time longer than a minute. If your car is idle for more that one minute, it uses the same amount of gas that you would use when you are restarting the engine.
• Lessen your car's load. The heavier the car, the more gas it will consume.
• Check if tires inflated accordingly. Tires with appropriate pressure save fuel better than when under-filled or over-filled with air.
About the Author
Odell Kaufman writes regularly about computers related topics. I hope you enjoy this article.
Conventional or Hybrid Car For You?
Staunch supporters of the Hybrid Car are rooting for it whilst the conventional car sales continue without much impact. But car manufacturers are watching on as Hybrid cars begin taking up about 4 percent share of the total car market and growing.
So, what differences are there a hybrid car has that the conventional car does not. Would they be key to pushing more and more drivers to switch to the cleaner hybrid cars you ask. There are and we shall address them, albeit not all comprehensive.
Hybrid Cars Are More Expensive Than Conventional Cars, or Otherwise.
More complex aerodynamics are required in order for the Hybrid Car to reduce the wind factor, and therefore would logically command a higher price tag. But let us take a look at the following market example for comparing affordability.
The truth of pricing could well be lost in all the rhetoric. A quick search on the net and a few phone calls to the car shops suggested that the most popular Hybrid Car model, the Toyota Prius priced between USD19000 to USD23000, a price tag cheaper than the dependable conventional favorite of a Ford Taurus. Add this to tax incentives which abound for the Hybrid car, awarded to hybrid cars owners over a period of a few years, and you will see narrowing of the gap between hybrid car price tags and money back into the pocket, and over a few years too.
Hybrid Cars Spare Parts are Lacking.
The mass production of hybrid cars has seen a steep curve which gathered momentum less than 2 years ago. Hence, the need for hybrid car spare parts may yet to suffice for a long time. In light of the new US President Barak Obama emphatically endorsing further commercialization of the Hybrid Car, production is expected to at least double. Most car manufacturers provide an 8 year guarantee for the hybrid car batteries and parts
A hybrid and a conventional car can both use lead acid batteries that hold enough energy to power a small motor that's electric. With both types of car using similar batteries, used parts are easily available. Although so, lithium ion batteries are being actively experimented upon and this will cause greater changes tipping the scale toward an even more energy efficient Hybrid car.
Topping that 8 year hybrid car guarantee by car manufacturers, is a good amount of hybrid car tax incentives which pays more than a few years, couple with the fact that you contribute to the green revolution too, it is not a difficult decision to make.
Get more great reads about Hybrid Cars and Environmentally Friendly Cars at my website.
About the Author
Joey Lee has 17 years of business & marketing experience in the Insurance & Banking Industry, holds an Executive MBA, and a Platinum Ezine Author. Get the latest eco friendly hybrid green cars info at Hybrids & Environmentally Friendly Cars and much more at CngCar.org
So, what differences are there a hybrid car has that the conventional car does not. Would they be key to pushing more and more drivers to switch to the cleaner hybrid cars you ask. There are and we shall address them, albeit not all comprehensive.
Hybrid Cars Are More Expensive Than Conventional Cars, or Otherwise.
More complex aerodynamics are required in order for the Hybrid Car to reduce the wind factor, and therefore would logically command a higher price tag. But let us take a look at the following market example for comparing affordability.
The truth of pricing could well be lost in all the rhetoric. A quick search on the net and a few phone calls to the car shops suggested that the most popular Hybrid Car model, the Toyota Prius priced between USD19000 to USD23000, a price tag cheaper than the dependable conventional favorite of a Ford Taurus. Add this to tax incentives which abound for the Hybrid car, awarded to hybrid cars owners over a period of a few years, and you will see narrowing of the gap between hybrid car price tags and money back into the pocket, and over a few years too.
Hybrid Cars Spare Parts are Lacking.
The mass production of hybrid cars has seen a steep curve which gathered momentum less than 2 years ago. Hence, the need for hybrid car spare parts may yet to suffice for a long time. In light of the new US President Barak Obama emphatically endorsing further commercialization of the Hybrid Car, production is expected to at least double. Most car manufacturers provide an 8 year guarantee for the hybrid car batteries and parts
A hybrid and a conventional car can both use lead acid batteries that hold enough energy to power a small motor that's electric. With both types of car using similar batteries, used parts are easily available. Although so, lithium ion batteries are being actively experimented upon and this will cause greater changes tipping the scale toward an even more energy efficient Hybrid car.
Topping that 8 year hybrid car guarantee by car manufacturers, is a good amount of hybrid car tax incentives which pays more than a few years, couple with the fact that you contribute to the green revolution too, it is not a difficult decision to make.
Get more great reads about Hybrid Cars and Environmentally Friendly Cars at my website.
About the Author
Joey Lee has 17 years of business & marketing experience in the Insurance & Banking Industry, holds an Executive MBA, and a Platinum Ezine Author. Get the latest eco friendly hybrid green cars info at Hybrids & Environmentally Friendly Cars and much more at CngCar.org
Car Choice Reflects Presidential Vote
As we await the results of the biggest US Presidential Election we have ever seen, I have found an interesting article on how car choice reflects how Americans vote.
Kelley Blue Book Market Research surveyed almost 12,000 US car owners and how they planned to vote in the election. They found that owners of larger trucks and traditional luxury cars are more likely to vote for John McCain, while owners of hybrids and station wagons are more likely to vote for Barack Obama.
Backers of Arizona senator McCain typically own American brands - GMC (61%), Chevrolet (60%), Buick and Dodge (58%). McCain voters are also more likely to drive luxury brands like Lexus and BMW.
Barack Obama followers prefer imported vehicles, with the most popular being the Mini with 70%, Subaru (61%) and Saab (59%).
McCain supporters are most likely to drive full size trucks and SUVs, while Obama voters drive station wagons, hatchbacks and hybrids.
Rick Wainschel from Kelley Blue Book said "Car ownership says a lot about a person, and can even be an indicator who they are likely to vote for". I do agree with this to an extent. While all this data may seem like a sweeping generalisation, some of it does make sense.
Sales of domestic and large trucks (McCain) are higher in traditionally Republican 'red' states whilst import and hybrid owners are predominantly located in Democratic 'blue' states.
Wired Blog claims all American brands like GMC and Chevrolet, as favoured by McCain followers, represent a blue collar ethic and fit with McCain's image as a war hero with years of experience.
Throughout the campaign, Obama has stressed the importance of renewable energy, so it's not surprising that eco-conscious hybrid car owners would vote for him.
So while some of it makes sense, I'm sure there are a lot of exceptions to the rule. I imagine a lot of American car choices reflect personal budgets and need for space rather than their voting preference.
About the Author
Car Guru writes for DriveAway Holidays, DriveAway Holidays New Zealand and the DriveAway Holidays Blog
Kelley Blue Book Market Research surveyed almost 12,000 US car owners and how they planned to vote in the election. They found that owners of larger trucks and traditional luxury cars are more likely to vote for John McCain, while owners of hybrids and station wagons are more likely to vote for Barack Obama.
Backers of Arizona senator McCain typically own American brands - GMC (61%), Chevrolet (60%), Buick and Dodge (58%). McCain voters are also more likely to drive luxury brands like Lexus and BMW.
Barack Obama followers prefer imported vehicles, with the most popular being the Mini with 70%, Subaru (61%) and Saab (59%).
McCain supporters are most likely to drive full size trucks and SUVs, while Obama voters drive station wagons, hatchbacks and hybrids.
Rick Wainschel from Kelley Blue Book said "Car ownership says a lot about a person, and can even be an indicator who they are likely to vote for". I do agree with this to an extent. While all this data may seem like a sweeping generalisation, some of it does make sense.
Sales of domestic and large trucks (McCain) are higher in traditionally Republican 'red' states whilst import and hybrid owners are predominantly located in Democratic 'blue' states.
Wired Blog claims all American brands like GMC and Chevrolet, as favoured by McCain followers, represent a blue collar ethic and fit with McCain's image as a war hero with years of experience.
Throughout the campaign, Obama has stressed the importance of renewable energy, so it's not surprising that eco-conscious hybrid car owners would vote for him.
So while some of it makes sense, I'm sure there are a lot of exceptions to the rule. I imagine a lot of American car choices reflect personal budgets and need for space rather than their voting preference.
About the Author
Car Guru writes for DriveAway Holidays, DriveAway Holidays New Zealand and the DriveAway Holidays Blog
Fuel Economy-A Beginners Guide
What is Fuel Economy?
According to Wikipedia, fuel economy in cars is the amount of fuel required to move a vehicle over a given distance. It is usually measured by the amount of fuel used per unit distance i.e. the number of litres of fuel used to travel 100 kilometres. The lower the value, the better the fuel economy as it takes less fuel to drive the same distance.
Why is Fuel Economy important?
With petrol prices at an all time high, a few simple steps to improve your fuel economy can save you money, which is always good. Plus, burning fossil fuels adds to pollution and climate change, and adds to our dependence on oil which, as we know, is a non-renewable source of energy.
What can I do to improve Fuel Economy?
Hybrid cars are considered to be extremely fuel efficient. A hybrid car is powered by petrol and electricity, so doesn't burn petrol all the time. The Toyota Prius model, for example, is rated as the Top Performer on the Green Vehicle Guide from the Australian government with a fuel consumption of 4.4L per 100km.
Can I improve Fuel Economy without spending money?
Yes! The good news is there are lots of ways in which you can improve fuel economy without buying a new car or gadgets.
On the Road
• Watch Your Speed - Higher speeds use more fuel. Most cars run at a maximum efficiency around 95kmph (60mph). Website www.fueleconomy.gov shows how driving speed affects gas mileage.
• Drive smoothly - Avoid stopping and starting your vehicle as it takes more fuel to get a vehicle moving than it does to keep it moving. Aggressive driving like rapid acceleration and braking also wastes fuel as when you do it, you send more fuel to the engine.
• Using Cruise Control can help save fuel as you travel at a constant speed.
In the Garage
• Look after your car - regular maintenance will avoid fuel economy problems like dragging brakes or transmission problems. A well lubricated engine reduces friction and takes less fuel to run. Also, keeping your car clean and waxed improves aerodynamics and fuel economy!
• Correct tyre pressure is vital for fuel efficiency. Properly inflated tyres have less contact with the road, encounter less friction so the engine doesn't have to work as hard to move the car.
• Check your air filters - dirty air filters restrict air flow to the engine which reduces performance and economy.
• Clean out the boot! Added weight reduces fuel economy.
Some other tips
• Plan your trips so you make one big trip instead of lots of small ones - a warm engine is more efficient than a cool one.
• Buy fuel on Tuesdays when it's cheapest!
• Keep an eye on cheap fuel prices in your area. Check out http://motormouth.com.au/pricesearch.aspx?Region=Sydney for Sydney.
Favourite Tip
While researching this piece, I came across one tip that most people would probably be willing to try - work a four day week! By driving to work one day less a week, you can save on fuel costs and help the environment. Now that's one idea I will be pitching to the boss…
About the Author
Car Guru writes for DriveAway Holidays, DriveAway Holidays New Zealand and the DriveAway Holidays Blog
According to Wikipedia, fuel economy in cars is the amount of fuel required to move a vehicle over a given distance. It is usually measured by the amount of fuel used per unit distance i.e. the number of litres of fuel used to travel 100 kilometres. The lower the value, the better the fuel economy as it takes less fuel to drive the same distance.
Why is Fuel Economy important?
With petrol prices at an all time high, a few simple steps to improve your fuel economy can save you money, which is always good. Plus, burning fossil fuels adds to pollution and climate change, and adds to our dependence on oil which, as we know, is a non-renewable source of energy.
What can I do to improve Fuel Economy?
Hybrid cars are considered to be extremely fuel efficient. A hybrid car is powered by petrol and electricity, so doesn't burn petrol all the time. The Toyota Prius model, for example, is rated as the Top Performer on the Green Vehicle Guide from the Australian government with a fuel consumption of 4.4L per 100km.
Can I improve Fuel Economy without spending money?
Yes! The good news is there are lots of ways in which you can improve fuel economy without buying a new car or gadgets.
On the Road
• Watch Your Speed - Higher speeds use more fuel. Most cars run at a maximum efficiency around 95kmph (60mph). Website www.fueleconomy.gov shows how driving speed affects gas mileage.
• Drive smoothly - Avoid stopping and starting your vehicle as it takes more fuel to get a vehicle moving than it does to keep it moving. Aggressive driving like rapid acceleration and braking also wastes fuel as when you do it, you send more fuel to the engine.
• Using Cruise Control can help save fuel as you travel at a constant speed.
In the Garage
• Look after your car - regular maintenance will avoid fuel economy problems like dragging brakes or transmission problems. A well lubricated engine reduces friction and takes less fuel to run. Also, keeping your car clean and waxed improves aerodynamics and fuel economy!
• Correct tyre pressure is vital for fuel efficiency. Properly inflated tyres have less contact with the road, encounter less friction so the engine doesn't have to work as hard to move the car.
• Check your air filters - dirty air filters restrict air flow to the engine which reduces performance and economy.
• Clean out the boot! Added weight reduces fuel economy.
Some other tips
• Plan your trips so you make one big trip instead of lots of small ones - a warm engine is more efficient than a cool one.
• Buy fuel on Tuesdays when it's cheapest!
• Keep an eye on cheap fuel prices in your area. Check out http://motormouth.com.au/pricesearch.aspx?Region=Sydney for Sydney.
Favourite Tip
While researching this piece, I came across one tip that most people would probably be willing to try - work a four day week! By driving to work one day less a week, you can save on fuel costs and help the environment. Now that's one idea I will be pitching to the boss…
About the Author
Car Guru writes for DriveAway Holidays, DriveAway Holidays New Zealand and the DriveAway Holidays Blog
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