How to Get the Best Mileage Driving a Prius
With a clever combination of old fashioned fossil fuel, internal combustion technology and battery power, the Toyota Prius is one of the most popular hybrid cars around. According to Toyota, the Prius can achieve around 50 mpg. But that hasn't stopped many owners from maximizing their Prius' fuel efficiency and reaping the benefits of a smaller outlay of money spent on fuel.
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Instructions
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Don't speed. When you drive on the freeway, don't drive above the posted speed limit and instead drive conservatively. For every MPH above 55, the drag created by a Prius can cost you one mpg. If possible, plan a route where you can maintain a constant speed of 35 to 45 mph, which is the most optimal speed for a hybrid.
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Try to avoid using the AC and defrost unless it is absolutely necessary, as both of these use energy. Sure, you don't want to be sitting in your car sweating, but unless you live in Arizona you may be able to get away without using the "MAX" setting on the AC.
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Check your tire pressure. Like any car, the fuel mileage that a Prius attains is affected by even something as seemingly minor as the tire pressure. A tire that does not have enough air in it will create drag, increasing the amount of power needed to keep it rolling down the road. Keep a tire pressure gauge (available at auto parts stores and even grocery stores) in the glove compartment of your Prius and check your tire pressure every week. To determine the proper tire pressure, look at the tire's sidewall, which will have the tire pressure recommendations of the tire maker imprinted on it.
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Drive smoothly. When you drive your Prius, drive it as smoothly as possible. Accelerate progressively instead of just jamming the gas pedal to the floor. When the transmission is about to shift, lift slightly on the accelerator so that the gearbox shifts more smoothly.
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Coast down hills or when you are decelerating and coming to a stop. Keep in mind that you should not coast when you are in heavy traffic, as that may create a dangerous situation.
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Maintain your Prius according to the factory recommendations. That means regular oil changes with the proper weight of oil. Oil that is too heavy or that has become sludgy from not being replaced creates extra drag on the engine's internals, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Your Prius should also be well maintained. The fuel filters and items like the spark plugs should be replaced periodically.
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Combine many errands into one trip. Starting a Prius when it is cold takes more energy and uses more fuel, so try to get all of your errands done without letting the car cool down too much between stops.
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