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Drivers trained in mileage-maximizing
techniques such as smooth acceleration and coasting to red lights were
able to get an extraordinary 1,445.7 miles out of a single tank of
petrol during a fund-raising effort in Washington, D.C. They did it by
averaging 81.5 miles per gallon in an off-the-showroom floor,
non-modified 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient midsize
car in North America – nearly doubling its U.S. certified mileage.
The Fusion Hybrid 1,000-Mile Challenge
started from Mount Vernon, Va., and ended this morning at George
Washington Parkway in Washington, D.C. After more than 69 continuous
hours of driving, the Fusion Hybrid finally depleted its tank and came
to a stop with an odometer reading of 1,445.7 miles – setting a world
record for petrol-powered, midsize saloon.
A team of seven drivers prepared for
the challenge by learning a few mileage-maximizing techniques, most of
which can be used in any vehicle to improve fuel economy, but are
especially useful in the Fusion Hybrid where the driver can take
advantage of pure electric energy at speeds below 47 mph.
Mileage maximizing techniques include:
- Slowing down and
maintaining even throttle pressure;
- Gradually
accelerating and smoothly braking;
- Maintaining a
safe distance between vehicles and anticipating traffic conditions;
- Coasting up to
red lights and stop signs to avoid fuel waste and brake wear;
- Minimize use of
heater and air conditioning to reduce the load on the engine;
- Close windows at
high speeds to reduce aerodynamic drag;
- Applying the
“Pulse and Glide” technique while maintaining the flow of traffic;
- Minimize
excessive engine workload by using the vehicle’s kinetic forward
motion to climb hills, and use downhill momentum to build speed; and
- Avoiding bumps
and potholes that can reduce momentum
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