3 Different Methods for Boosting Vehicular Fuel Efficiency

[Mike Thies]

3 Different Methods for Boosting Vehicular Fuel Efficiency

Method #1 – Aerodynamics

One of the best ways to increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle is to make your car more aerodynamic.  Up against strong wind resistance, many cars are slowed down tremendously, particularly vehicles with boxier shapes and exterior designs.  By creating a more streamlined flow for air, the engine of your vehicle will have to work less hard in order to compensate for the wind resistance, resulting in less engine strain and less fuel drain.  Air dams, rear spoilers, and other add-ons can help with this, though you may want to avoid using rear spoilers on trucks and SUVs because they’ll look awkward.

Method #2 – System Changes

Aftermarket performance chips are designed to alter the functionality of your vehicle’s computer systems, triggering different responses depending on how the chip interacts with your car’s ECU.  By installing performance chips on vehicles, drivers can see up to 4-7mpg in fuel expenditure savings.  Basically, the chip is tricking your vehicle’s onboard computer to react differently to data it receives, and in many cases this can result in enhanced fuel economy.  The effect is likely to be amplified further when paired with other more powerful add-ons, such as turbochargers.

Method #3 – All the Rest

There are many small things you can do to improve fuel efficiency.  By simply keeping all of the tires on your vehicle inflated to optimal levels, you can improve the fuel economy of your vehicle.  So be sure to stop by a gas station or auto shop and to inflate your tires regularly.  Also, removing unnecessarily heavy pieces can reduce your car’s weight and also reduce engine strain.  Your car’s stock hood, for instance, is likely quite a bit heavier than an aftermarket fiberglass or carbon fiber replacement.  Switching out one for the other can result in up to a hundred pound weight loss, which is quite a lot for a single part replacement.