Flipping through some old GMTMA newsletters, we discovered that in 2007 gas prices were quickly rising to $4.00 per gallon, the highest we have seen in the U.S. in decades. Until now of course, when prices have climbed to $5.00 per gallon or more. Back then prices were rising due a Hurricanes Rita and Katrina. These days, the gas price increase has been attributed to a number of factors, including a war in Europe and a pandemic. People everywhere are feeling the pinch. So, what can you do to save money and help reduce the overall demand for gas? Here are a few tips:
- If you have not yet replaced your car rides with bike rides, consider looking into what destinations are within 2 miles of your home and try giving biking a chance.
- If you have not switched to an electric or hybrid, here are a few other things you can do to reduce your gas consumption (and CO2 emissions):
- Keep your tires pumped up, it helps increase fuel efficiency by decreasing rolling resistance
- Clean up your trunk – every extra 110 pounds increases fuel consumption by 2%
- Don’t drive with your windows open, it increases wind resistance and fuel consumption
- Don’t idle
- Keep your car clean
- Combine errands in one trip, make a list and schedule a day and a route that will decrease the number of miles traveled
- Plan your trip during off-peak hours to avoid traffic which leads to frequent stopping and increased fuel consumption
- Travel the speed limit – you increase your chances of getting more green lights and your car is more efficient at 50 mph than traveling at 70mph.
- Use cruise control when possible, keeping your speed constant will save you fuel
- Carpool
If you want to learn more about carpooling, EVs, biking or walking, we can help. Contact us to learn more about joining a carpool, finding a bike route, bike safety tips, where to find an electrical vehicle charger, and more.
Sources:
https://www.mobil.com/en/sap/personal-vehicles/car/vehicle-maintenance/reduce-fuel-consumption