The
modern family sedan is a technological wonder, capable of fuel
efficiency that was unheard of only a few years ago. Small cars and
hybrids regularly get over 50 miles per gallon; 35 MPG at highway speed
is becoming common, even in full-size sedans.
A large part of the
reason for such high MPG numbers is aerodynamics, the way the shape of
the car lets it flow easily through the air. There's a good reason that
cars are typically the same shape: a teardrop shape, or as close to that
as the designers can make it, is the most efficient shape to go through
the air. Jagged edges mean lower MPG.
There's a real problem,
though, if you change that car's carefully planned shape. It's known
that just opening all of your windows at highway speed can cost you
several miles per gallon compared to using your air conditioner with all
of the windows closed.
But nothing affects aerodynamics like
adding carriers and bike racks, especially on the top of the car. It's
common sense, but it hadn't actually been studied in a scientific way.
Now
Consumer Reports has performed tests on how adding carriers and racks affect highway fuel economy.
In
their tests, for example, a four-cylinder 2013 Honda Accord LX was
found to get 42 miles per gallon at 65 miles per hour. When they added a
rooftop bike rack (bare, without a bike), it dropped to 37 mpg.
Surprisingly, adding a wind deflector decreased it further, to 35 mpg.
Add two bikes and the mileage really tanked, dropping to 27. That means
about a third of the fuel was being used to carry the two bikes!
The
lesson is clear: when you're done using a top-mounted carrier or bike
rack, remove it, especially if you're driving at highway speeds. You'll
definitely increase your fuel economy and save money on gas.
And
while you're in a fuel-saving mood, check that your tire pressure is
correct. It's often overlooked and is another easy way to increase both
fuel efficiency and safety.
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Nice Tip! is a series
of articles on car-oriented topics, especially the brands sold by
Conicelli Autoplex in Conshohocken and Springfield, Pennsylvania. We
sell new Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Scion, and Toyota vehicles and used
vehicles of all makes.
We're a Nice Place To Do Business! Call 1-888-Conicelli or visit
Conicelli.com.
