Eric G. wrote:
> Yeah, Bob, that's what I figured too. I just think this car could get
so
> much better mileage overall with much less of that drag.
>
> And your 100% right about the braking. Actually, it all goes to the
> overall smoothness of the ride. The less g's your pull, either positive
or
> negative, from accelerating or braking, will improve your mileage. The
> lateral g's in a turn don't effect mileage as much, but if you are
> scrubbing off speed it will.
This is true with respect to stopping, but not with respect to
acceleration. The is an optimal acceleration curve that will maximize
fuel economy. Most cars get optimum economy in the 40-50 MPH range.
Driving too long at speeds less than that will cause a lose in overall
economy. So, you generaly want to accelerate smoothly to at least 40
MPH. You don't want to floor it to be sure, but taking two miles to
accelerate to 55 MPH will take more fuel than a more reasonable
acceleration that gets the car into the "sweet zone" sooner and keeps it
there longer.
Matt
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