News You Can Use

Make gas dollars ‘go the distance’ in a time of soaring prices

University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Kasia Haupt
July 21, 2004

STARKVILLE, Miss.—With gasoline at record levels, most drivers are anxious to have their vehicles run as fuel efficiently as possible.

James Parsons, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering at Mississippi State, says there are several ways to decrease gas guzzling. Most obvious: park and walk; use a bicycle to go short distances, if appropriate; or take public transportation, if available. All three options can be great for your pocketbook, your health and our environment.

“If you must drive,” Parsons recommends, “try carpooling with friends or neighbors” or, at the very least, “combine multiple errands into one outing.” As he explains, an engine is most inefficient when first started, so “once the engine is warm, it will use less fuel.”

To assure optimum vehicle efficiency before turning the ignition key, he encourages owners to make sure the:

—Engine is properly tuned;

—Tire pressures are at levels recommended by the owner’s manual; and

—Gasoline grade is correct, since “engine knock” from too low an octane may result in increased engine wear. (Parsons warns, however, that addition of a higher-than-needed octane fuel will not buy benefits in efficiency).

—Unnecessary weight—extra tool boxes, old books, other heavy objects—is removed; and

—Air and fuel filters are clean and working properly.

When on the road, he says drivers should:

—Adhere to posted speed limits for both gas efficiency and improved safety;

—Maintain a constant highway speed, since frequent accelerations and slowings use more fuel; and

—Keep windows closed, because the added wind drag decreases fuel efficiency even more than the on-board air conditioner.