Hypermiling

Hypermiling is driving a vehicle with techniques that minimize fuel consumption. Those who use these techniques are called "hypermilers".[1]

Hypermiling can be practiced in any vehicle regardless of fuel consumption. It gained popularity due to the rise in gasoline prices in the 2000s.[2] Some hypermiling techniques are illegal in some countries because they are dangerous.[3] In 2008, the New Oxford American Dictionary voted "hypermiling" the best new word of the year.[4]

Safety and awareness program

Hypermiling has come under fire from several sides because some hypermilers show dangerous or illegal behaviour,[5] such as tailgating larger vehicles on motorways to save fuel, cycling between accelerating and coasting in neutral, and even turning the engine off when its power is not needed.[6] For this reason, the Hypermiling Safety Foundation was established in August 2008 to promote a safety and education program that promotes legal fuel-saving techniques.

Hypermiling with electric cars

The range of some electric cars are limited. To get maximum out of the battery, drivers sometimes use hypermiling.[7] Some try to get a new record with one charging of battery. For example, a Tesla Model 3 ran more than 1000 km with one battery charge. The average speed was 38 km/h and the whole drive took around 30 hours. The tester used the autopilot of Tesla Model 3, running the car unmanned. The test car did not drive on a public road.[8]

Hypermiling with aircraft

There have been several aircraft hypermiling competitions held throughout the years, such the FuelVenture and CAFE challenges.[9] Klaus Savier won the 2009 Fuelventure 400 in a VariEze aircraft which got 45 MPG at 207 MPH with a modified Continental O-200 engine upgraded with a computerized a fuel injection and ignition system by Light Speed Engineering.[10] By slowing to extend range, mileage approaches 100 miles per gallon.[11]

See also

References

  • The dictionary definition of hypermiling at Wiktionary
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