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Fuel Fact of the Week

Fact #982:Slow Down to Save Fuel: Fuel Economy Decreases About 14% When Traveling at 70 mph Versus 60 mph



Between 40 and 50 miles per hour (mph) is the optimum cruising speed for high fuel economy in cars and light trucks according to an Oak Ridge National Laboratory study of 74 different vehicles. The average fuel economy decrease from 50 to 60 mph was 12.4%; from 60 to 70 mph the average decrease was an additional 14%; and from 70 to 80 mph the average decrease was another 15.4%. The best fuel economy is typically obtained when the vehicle is traveling at the lowest speed in the vehicle’s highest gear.

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Past Fuel Facts of the Week.

Question of the Month

How is fuel economy determined and reported for alternative fuel vehicles?

Last month we learned about how the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determines and reports conventional light-duty vehicle fuel economy ratings. While alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) fuel economy testing is largely similar to that of conventional fuels, the EPA makes some adjustments to account for different vehicle technology and fuel energy content. By tailoring AFV fuel economy testing and reporting, the EPA is able to provide apples-to-apples comparisons and allow consumers to make informed decisions.

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