Hypermiling is the maximization of gas mileage by adjusting your driving techniques. The term was coined by Wayne Gerdes, who enjoys teaching people how to make the most of their fuel tanks by exceeding EPA ratings, and challenging himself to get the highest mpg rating for every car.
For this challenge, Gerdes took the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel from Houston, TX as far north as it would go on one tank of gas. This model had a 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The truck was filled with 4 people, their gear, and the winning prototype from the Shell Eco-marathon competition in the back.
For this truck, the key to maximizing gas mileage is to ride in the highest gear, while going as slowly as possible before needing to downshift. This means the team had to stay between 47 and 55mph, depending on the incline of the road. After reaching 55mph, they would take their foot off the gas and the engine would go into deceleration fuel cut off, before the gas was applied again to maintain speed.
Another way to maximize efficiency is to activate the 1500's automatic aero suspension, which turns on when the truck drives faster than 66mph. It lowers the truck 0.6 inches, making it a little more aerodynamic. It is deactivated when the truck goes down to 30mph.
By using these techniques, Gerdes and his team were able to squeeze out 38.1mpg from the 1500 EcoDiesel, which has an EPA-estimated rating of 27mpg on the highway.
Here at Bergeron Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, we know that not everyone is a hypermiling expert like Gerdes. But by adjusting a few of our driving habits, while keeping tires inflated, removing roof racks, and turning off the engine instead of idling, we can maximize the fuel efficiency of our vehicles.
To learn more about the Ram 1500 or other Ram vehicles, visit our Metairie, LA showroom. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have.
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