Tips for improving Mileage on your Prius
Some Prius drivers are able to achieve fuel economy well above 55mpg (miles per gallon) while others are barely on the level of 40mpg.
Hybrids or any other car for that matter requires a minimum six months break in period (approximately 5,000 miles or more) before being able to achieve the maximum mpg’s (peak). After the break-in period, there are few tips to ensure maximum mileage:
When to Drive
First of all, try to get as many things or errands done in one attempt. And avoid rush-hour traffic – traffic congestions means lots of stopping, which means a waste of energy. Secondly, it is unavoidable that the first 5 – 10 minutes of driving gives the worst mileage. Avoid driving on rainy or snowy conditions.
Route Selection
Speed is the key. The most suitable routes for better mileage are distances without stops, and speed limits of 30-35 mph. Hills should not be a concern though, as the downhill stretches enables regenerative braking to recharge the batteries.
Wind is also the key. Select routes that are less windy because the hybrid’s aerodynamics is only streamlined for head-on gusts, side winds may affect the mpg. Tail winds on the other hand are great.
Tire Pressure
Generally the maximum tire pressure will maximize mileage (Do not use the recommended tire pressure). Do some research to determine the maximum tire pressure and maintain it, checking it regularly and try not to let the pressure fall below maximum level.
Fuels
High octane gasoline actually provides less energy. Low octane gasoline is the best. There is slightly less energy in a gallon of high octane fuel, than low octane. If the engine is designed for high octane then higher octane fuel will result in higher performance (with full-open throttle), but not necessarily fuel cost savings, since the high-octane is only needed with the throttle fully open.
On The Drive – Acceleration
Never attempt to reach 60 mph as fast as possible because the hybrid is not designed as a maximum acceleration sport car. Accelerate moderately by feel, let the car accelerate smoothly.
In the event that a rapid acceleration is required (such as entering highways), stomp the gas and go. The battery power that runs in addition to the gasoline engine will lower fuel use as much as possible.
For highway cruising, the standard and usual best results are derived at approximately 55 mph.
On The Drive – Deceleration
For low mileage, the goal is to ‘glide’, ‘coast’ and apply ‘regenerative braking’ at every possible chance even at low traffic conditions.
Gliding – while traveling, avoid pressure on accelerator then slightly re-apply pressure momentarily. This technique can only work when the engines are completely warmed up.
Coasting – This technique is to lift your foot off the accelerator and yet do not apply any pressures on the brakes. Slight regenerative braking is applied and thus allows fuel saving.
Regenerative Braking – When braking, do not brake abruptly. Instead, hold down the brakes slowly but enough to stop at the point intended. The electric motors will now act as generators.
Mechanical Braking – Firmly stomp on the brakes. This does is the braking technique you want to avoid at all costs, well maybe not at all costs – you have to slam on the brakes to avoid hitting something or someone – but as much as you can.
Gear Selection
The gear selections should be appropriate as to uphill or downhill routes, and maintain cruising gear for cruising speed to reduce mileage. One important point is the B gear. The B gear should only be used when going a long downhill. B gear allows the engine to slow down without overuse of the brakes and overcharge of the batteries.
Air-conditioning
On hot days, the temperature of the air-con should be few degrees lower than outside temperature to keep air flowing into the car without much use of energies.
Maximum setting is strongly discouraged.
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