Reduce Fuel Use and Emissions

Keller & Keller LLP encourages Indiana drivers to reduce fuel use and emissions from their vehicles by following a few of the simple steps listed below. Typically, practicing moderate levels of EcoDriving can reduce fuel use by an average of 15%.

1. Avoid rapid starts and stops, rapid acceleration and braking. This type of activity is referred to as “jack rabbit” starts and stops, and it wastes precious fuel and excess dollars at the gas pump.

3. Ride the “Green Wave.” A steady, safe speed can often can help drivers avoid red lights and keep their cars moving more efficiently.

4. Use air conditioning at higher speeds. An open window is better for slower speeds (less than 40 mph). Urban areas are particularly conducive for open windows. If you are traveling at higher speeds (over 40 mph), open window will use more fuel than your air conditioner. In fact, maintaining an optimum highway speed, observing the speed limit, and not exceeding 60 mph (where legally allowed) can improve your mileage by 7-23%.

5. Cruise control can provide a 7% average fuel savings, compared to driving without using this feature. Additionally, by planning your trips, even your Saturday shopping, can help reduce fuel use and CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions.

6. Avoid idling! Idling uses gas, and because the car is not moving, it translates into 0 mpg.  If you live in a larger city such as Chicago, which has an abundance of toll roads, buy an Automated Pass such as the “EZ Pass.”  This will allow you to avoid stopping and starting as you approach tolls as well as idling in toll lane lines.

7. Use the highest gear possible where possible, such as on a highway. Your vehicles engine speed is reduced, you save fuel, and engine wear is minimized while reducing CO2 emissions.

8. Drive your vehicle to warm it up. Your vehicle will reach its optimum operating temperature much faster when you are driving, rather than idling. As well, always roll down the windows when getting into a hot car, as this helps blow out the hot air. Whenever possible, try to park in the shade, and invest in a heat reflector or window shades.

9. Obey your check engine light. When your onboard diagnostics alert light signals your attention, there is a possibility that your emissions are increased and your fuel economy is going down.