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Hybrid Car Driving TipsThese clubs have sprung up as people are teaming up with their ideas on how to make the hybrids even more efficient. Based on the forum discussions on what these clubs have, there are several rules that may or may not apply to all hybrid cars. For one, the drivers seem to drive moderately, not going over the speed limits and anticipating stops so that they can use gentle braking to regenerate power into the battery instead of wearing out the brakes. One of the things these people seem to do is to let up on the accelerator until they see the MPG instant gauge go to 60-80 mpg or higher. This way, you can still keep the same speed but the mpg is greater. You can also leave plenty of room to the vehicle in front of you. This way, if the traffic ahead slows, you'll have space to maintain momentum and conserve energy, allowing you to plan ahead. Also, try different routes for common trips. If your highway/freeway MPG is much higher than on alternate slower routes, by taking those alternate routes, you may travel slower, but gain fuel efficiency, the net effect being a save. Not all hybrids are equipped with a accurate real-time MPG meter, which would make it useful if you keep a log between fills to determine which way saves you more. Based on these clubs observations, the wind resistance roughly doubles between 55 MPH and 70 MPH. Thus, consider driving the speed limit or lower while in the right hand lane. If you use the A/C system, it will decrease your mileage, especially in smaller cars. One way to use A/C economically is to wait to activate the A/C button until rolling down a hill or decelerating. This way, the momentum of the car runs more of the A/C instead of the fuel. Similarly, keeping air conditioning or defroster off while climbing a hill will increase MPG economy. Low tire pressure will decrease your MPG. Using higher pressures should give you greater savings, but at the expense of a harder ride. Every tire has a maximum cold pressure rating imprinted on the side of the tire. Keep within those limits. For additional hybrid car driving tips, accelerating from full stop is one of the most important things that decrease your MPG. From full stop, to increase MPG, you should accelerate as gradually as practical. However, keep in mind the traffic behind you. Climbing hills will also decrease your MPG dramatically. If you can avoid hills with route selection, it might be a good idea to try out those alternative routes for MPG increase. Similarly, try to listen to traffic reports on the radio or find out about traffic problems online. If you hear of a backup go around if possible.
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