Memorial Day weekend is approaching and it’s time to hit the road. Toyota
has teamed up with automotive industry expert Jeff Fortson to help make holiday
travel more fuel-efficient.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), the national
average price of gas is approximately $2.29 per gallon, a slight increase
compared to last month. This increase is expected to continue as demand for gas
holds steady with over 38 million drivers projected to travel this holiday
weekend.
“Drivers
can take simple steps to help them get the most gas mileage on their trips this
Memorial Day weekend,”
says Fortson, founder and editor of JeffCars.com, a site dedicated to auto education
and car-buying clinics. “Taking heed to these tips will not only lead to fuel
savings but will help provide a little extra money once you arrive at your
destination.”
Toyota and Fortson offer six fuel-efficiency tips designed to help protect
your pocket at the pump before
you start a memorable road trip with family and friends.
·
Use the cruise control (and the optional radar-activated cruise
control system) for holiday road trips. Both systems minimize sudden
acceleration and de-acceleration. According to fueleconomy.gov, speeding, rapid
acceleration and braking can decrease gas mileage by 33 percent.
Be sure to check and properly inflate each
tire, including the spare before you set out on a trip. Gas
mileage can be improved if tires have adequate pressure. Some vehicles are equipped with a tire
pressure monitor system which alerts you when it detects tire pressure is critically
low. If the car isn’t equipped with this system, a tire gauge can be purchased at
the local parts store and the service department can check the air pressure.
·
Rent a fuel-efficient vehicle. If you are renting a car, you may want to
consider a hybrid vehicle, such as Prius or Prius V.
Use the factory installed navigation system or a
favorite app from your smartphone.
These navigation systems will alert drivers of traffic congestion and
provide you with the shortest route to your destination.
Always pack smart. Just like flying, you should only take necessary
items for a road trip. Avoid using the
roof rack, if possible, because it reduces the aerodynamics and decreases fuel
efficiency.
Watch the A/C. It is recommended that you use the air
conditioner when driving highway speeds. When driving in stop-and-go traffic, turn
the air conditioner off and allow air to circulate through the vehicle.
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