With gas prices climbing towards $4/gallon (I was in San Francisco last week, where gas prices had already passed that level a while ago), it's no surprise that people are trying to maximize their car's MPG.
But Wayne Gerdes takes it to the very extreme: he's the king of the hypermilers, and can get 59 MPG in a plain old Accord.
But you may not want to try it ... here's why:
I'm thinking that hypermiling consists of driving like a 90-year-old in a mobile sweat lodge, but I'm about to find out I'm wrong. Really, really wrong.
"Buckle up tight, because this is the death turn," says Wayne. Death turn? We're moving at 50 mph. Wayne turns off the engine. He's bearing down on the exit, and as he turns the wheel sharply to the right, the tires squeal—which is what happens when you take a 25 mph turn going 50. Cathy, Terry's wife, who is sitting next to me in the backseat, grabs my leg. I grab the door handle. As we come out of the 270-degree turn, Cathy says, "I hope you have upholstery cleaner."
Here's an interesting article by Dennis Gaffney for Mother Jones: Link - Thanks MoonCake!
Go figure!
If he was so concerned about his oil consumption, he'd move closer.
Dick.
Anyway yes his tactics are idiotic, offensive, dangerous and extreme, but take away from it some good tips. Don't race to red lights, braking hard; it's a waste of both gas and your brake pads. Coming to a steep hill? Go ahead an put in the clutch and let your momentum keep you at a safe speed.
Don't be a jerk, of course, but there are many things one can do that WILL help gas mileage.
Wow. He does this simply because he thinks it's the right thing to do. Look at the lengths he's gone to. He's a better person than I, by far.
I hope it's going to cost a bit less... those electric cars have the lowest MPG count ( Converted into what it cost you in electricity ) and it's fun to drive too.
http://www.jaylenosgarage.com/video/video_player.shtml?vid=229378