WHY IS FUEL EFFICIENCY LOWER IN THE CITY?

You’ve seen it before – the fuel efficiency estimations for a vehicle, indicating that you get way better gas mileage driving highway than in the city. Most vehicle drivers understand this fact, but do you know why fuel efficiency is lower in the city?

You may have thought about it, and wondered why you get better fuel efficiency when you are driving faster (on the highway) rather than slower in the city. The truth is, when you drive in the city where there are streetlights, stop signs, and lots of traffic, it puts a toll on your vehicle’s engine. When you are constantly accelerating and decelerating, your vehicle’s engine is working harder to move your vehicle. This requires more gas and therefore gives you a lower gas mileage.

When you drive highway, you are usually driving at a more consistent speed and not slowing or accelerating as frequently. This requires much less effort from your vehicle, which is why you probably get significantly better fuel efficiency when driving on the highway.

You may be wondering – how can I increase my gas mileage in the city? The best way to do so is by practicing safe driving. When you drive unsafely and are constantly pressing hard on the gas or brake, you are overworking your vehicle and using up more gas. Try to give yourself plenty of space to brake and try to maintain a more consistent speed if possible.

Low fuel efficieny can also be caused by poor vehicle maintnenace, so if you ever suspect an issue with how your vehicle is performing, give us a call here at ABR Houston for assistance.