What is Hypermiling?

With experts predicting that petrol prices will continue to rise in 2017, Brits can’t afford to waste a drop. As well as making the switch to fuel efficient vehicles, an offbeat new trend has emerged that can supposedly save motorists up to 40% on fuel.   

The petrol hack is known as hypermiling, and has stirred up a whole lot of controversy. Fuelled by an online community, dedicated ‘hypermilers’ do everything they can to beat the ‘miles per gallon’ figures stated by car manufacturers, as well as the fuel economy ratings handed down by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Safety vs efficiency

While they claim that safety is front of mind, techniques like coasting, tailgating and ‘brake free’ driving have won them negative attention. One of the most popular hacks is drafting, which involves tailgating the car in front. Supposedly, this slashes fuel consumption by 40% as the leading vehicle pushes air out the way, which creates an airstream and saves energy. Of course, this isn’t the safest hack, as it cancels out safe stopping distance and reduces visibility.  

Another hotly debated technique used by the hypermiling community is driving with the engine off. After speed has been built up, drivers simply switch off the engine and continue to cruise in neutral. Like drafting, it also has its risks. Drivers lose power steering, as well as the ability to accelerate away from danger.

Top tips for fuel conscious drivers

Fortunately, not all hypermiling techniques are as controversial. In fact, the community does suggest a series of 100% safe and effective hacks that any driver can adopt. 

• First up is keeping cars properly serviced, as well-maintained vehicles are up to 10% more efficient.
• Next get rid of unnecessary weight, as this enhances both performance and economy.
• A smooth drive is a more efficient drive, which means that laying off the accelerator and avoiding sharp braking can save fuel.
• Under-inflated tyres are less efficient, which means hypermilers always top up to the recommended manufacturer levels.
• Roof racks can create drag, which has a direct impact on fuel efficiency.
• When it comes to on-road efficiency, driving at between 50 and 60 miles an hour is generally the most efficient speed, and can save up to 40% in fuel
• If the car is running at under 40mph, hypermilers recommend switching off the aircon and simply opening the window. If travelling at over 40mph aircon is best, as open windows can create drag.

Motorists aren’t the only ones attempting to slash their fuel spends, with corporations also keen to maximise efficiency. Spotlighting the highly precise viscometers of the SVM™ series, ‘Testing the Lubricating Oil Viscosity for Utility Vehicle Engines’ highlights the benefits of using a single measuring cell to analyse multiple samples with different viscosities, at different temperatures.