‘Hypermiling’ Tricks Stir Up Criticism
By Liz F. Kay and Josh Mitchell
A growing number of enthusiasts are practicing something called "hypermiling." They strive to maximize the number of miles they get per gallon of gas by, say, driving at or below the speed limit and braking as little as possible.
Many trade tips and boast about their high gas mileage on online forums that are growing more popular as gas prices rise. The average price for self-serve gas in Maryland topped $4 per gallon yesterday, according to AAA Mid-Atlantic.
Estimates of potential savings vary, but one expert says the driver of a nonhybrid vehicle could improve his fuel economy 50 percent by applying basic tips.
But some auto experts question the safety of advanced hypermiling techniques such as "drafting" — closely following tractor-trailers to cut down on the flow of air against a vehicle.
clipped from: www.abc2news.com