Regan Brown
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for many car buyers, and some vehicles are now designed with this in mind. Fuel economy meters are gauges that display a car's mpg in real time, and they can be a useful tool to help drivers improve their fuel efficiency. Hypermiling drivers, who are obsessed with maximising their mpg, tend to favour vehicles with comprehensive fuel economy displays, such as the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius. However, it's worth noting that aftermarket mpg meters can be added to any car, and some companies offer products that work with OBD II vehicles to help drivers improve their fuel efficiency. While fuel economy meters can be useful, it's important to remember that they may not always provide a precise measurement of fuel economy. In addition to using a fuel economy meter, drivers can also improve their fuel efficiency by maintaining correct tyre pressure, using the air conditioning sparingly, and sticking to the same fuel brand and pump for consistency.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel efficiency meter type | Fuel consumption meter, fuel economy meter, fuel economy gauge |
| Purpose | To measure fuel efficiency in real-time, to improve driving habits and save fuel |
| Installation | Aftermarket installation is possible |
| Display | Digital display, radial graph, colour changes, lights |
| Cost | $30-$330 |
| Accuracy | Typically overestimates fuel economy by 5.5% on average |
| Fuel efficiency factors | Driving style, speed, tyre pressure, air conditioning, vehicle load, traffic, fuel brand, fuel tank, weather |
| Fuel-efficient cars | Electric cars, hybrid cars, gas-only cars (e.g. 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage, 2024 Honda Civic, 2024 Hyundai Elantra), Toyota Prius |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel economy meters can be aftermarket additions to your car
Aftermarket fuel economy meters come in a variety of types. Vacuum-type gauges, for instance, display relative fuel consumption based on the engine's manifold vacuum pressure. Momentum-based meters, on the other hand, use technology to sense the strength of your acceleration and braking, employing red and green lights or gauges to indicate excessive or acceptable fuel consumption. While these meters are not the most accurate way to measure fuel consumption, they can still provide a good sense of how your driving impacts your mpg.
Today, most aftermarket digital fuel economy meters connect to the onboard diagnostic port (OBD II) found in all vehicles sold in the US and Canada since 1996. Some popular options include the Auto Meter Ecometer ($69.99), which displays real-time fuel consumption in a radial graph and a digital format, and the DashHawk ($299) from MSD Ignition, which includes real-time fuel system status and works with vehicles using the CAN protocol. PLX Devices also offers the original Kiwi ($299.99), which works with OBD II vehicles and provides "Green Driving" lessons, and the Kiwi MPG ($89.99), which displays instantaneous mpg, trip mpg, and gas consumed. For those with an iPhone or iPod Touch, the Kiwi WiFi ($149.99) can connect to compatible auto-performance apps.
It is important to note that while fuel economy meters can be helpful, they typically report a better fuel economy than the actual value. This discrepancy is due to variations in fuel and fuel tanks, among other factors, and can add up to a substantial amount of money over a car's lifetime. Therefore, while these meters can guide you towards more efficient driving habits, they should not be relied upon for precise measurements.
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Meters can be inaccurate, reporting better fuel economy than reality
While fuel efficiency meters are useful tools to help drivers improve their driving efficiency, they often report a better fuel economy than the actual value. During a "Fuel-Sipper Smackdown" test by Edmunds, editors noted that the fuel economy gauges gave optimistic estimates of fuel economy. The editors drove five fuel-efficient cars under different driving conditions and calculated the fuel economy by measuring the amount of gas required for a certain distance, comparing it to the reading on the fuel economy gauge. They found a 5.5% average variation in the tested vehicles, indicating that the gauges showed better fuel economy than the actual value.
This discrepancy can have a significant impact on fuel costs over time. For example, a car showing 25 mpg on its fuel economy gauge but consuming 5.5% more fuel would result in 132 gallons of unreported fuel use over five years, increasing fuel costs by $660. Similarly, an SUV or pickup with an average fuel economy of 12.5 mpg according to its gauge would have actual fuel costs $1,320 higher than budgeted over five years.
Several factors can contribute to the inaccuracies in fuel economy gauges. Mini Product Manager Vinnie Kung explains that fuel tanks can expand during warm weather, affecting the readings. For instance, a Mini's fuel tank with a labeled capacity of 13.2 gallons may hold 14 gallons in the summer but only 12.9 gallons in the winter. This variation impacts mpg and "distance to empty" readings.
Additionally, the car's computer assumes that the gasoline provides a certain amount of energy to drive a specific distance. However, the fuel might have less energy than expected, resulting in decreased propulsion. This discrepancy between the assumed and actual energy content of the fuel can lead to inaccurate fuel economy readings.
While fuel economy meters may not always provide precise measurements, they can still be valuable tools for improving driving efficiency. Drivers can use the meters as a relative indicator to adjust their driving habits and reduce fuel consumption.
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Hypermiling is the act of maximising fuel efficiency
There are various techniques used by hypermilers to increase their gas mileage. One such technique is to carry the least amount of weight possible, as the more weight in the car, the more load the engine has to bear, and the more fuel it will consume. Another technique is drafting, which involves driving close to or slipstreaming behind another vehicle to benefit from its slipstream and reduce wind resistance. However, this is considered controversial due to the reduced visibility and increased risk of collision. Hypermiling can also involve driving at slower, steadier speeds and using the brakes sparingly, as braking can lead to heavier acceleration, both of which increase fuel consumption.
Some hypermilers take extreme measures that can border on dangerous. For example, some hypermilers turn off their engines when going downhill, which can restrict control over the vehicle. Others will tailgate larger vehicles on motorways or cycle between accelerating and coasting in neutral. These practices have given hypermiling a bad reputation, and the Hypermiling Safety Foundation was established in 2008 to promote safe and legal fuel-saving techniques.
While hypermiling can be a great way to save on fuel costs and reduce emissions, it is important to prioritise safety and follow legal driving practices. Fuel economy meters can be useful tools to help drivers improve their fuel efficiency, but it is worth noting that they may not always provide precise measurements.
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Fuel-efficient cars save you money in the long run
With gas prices soaring, many people are feeling the financial sting at the pump. Fuel-efficient cars can help you save money in the long run, but it's important to consider all the factors involved. While trading in your current car for a more fuel-efficient model can be tempting, it's not the only option. Let's explore this topic in more detail.
Understanding Fuel Efficiency and Costs
First, it's important to understand that fuel efficiency is measured in miles per gallon (mpg) and indicates how far a car can travel on a single gallon of fuel. Cars with higher mpg ratings are generally more fuel-efficient and cost-effective, especially for longer commutes or frequent driving. However, the upfront cost of a fuel-efficient car, such as a hybrid, can be significantly higher than a traditional gas-powered vehicle. For example, if you're considering a $25,000 hybrid that gets 25 mpg versus your current $10,000 car that gets 15 mpg, the trade-up may not immediately offset the higher cost.
Improving Fuel Efficiency
There are ways to improve the fuel efficiency of your current vehicle without necessarily purchasing a new one. You can consider trading for a smaller car within a similar price range as your current car, which can offer better fuel efficiency. Additionally, carpooling, even for a few days a week, can significantly reduce your fuel costs. Making more radical changes, such as moving closer to work or even changing jobs to reduce your commute distance, can also have a substantial impact on your fuel expenses.
Fuel Economy Meters and Driving Habits
Another way to improve fuel efficiency is to use a fuel economy meter or gauge, which provides real-time feedback on your mpg. These meters can help you adjust your driving habits, such as reducing heavy acceleration and braking, leading to better fuel efficiency. Hybrids and vehicles favored by "hypermilers" often come with built-in fuel economy displays. You can also add an aftermarket mpg meter to your car, which can help you become more conscious of your driving habits and their impact on fuel consumption.
Long-Term Savings
While the upfront costs of a fuel-efficient car may be higher, the long-term savings can be significant. For example, the Chevy Malibu Hybrid offers 46 mpg combined with a powerful engine, resulting in fewer fill-ups and substantial savings over time. The Toyota Corolla, with 52 mpg, offers a blend of efficiency and a reduced price point, making it one of the most cost-effective cars on the market. By choosing fuel-efficient models or improving your driving habits, you can reduce your overall fuel costs and save money in the long run, especially with the constant rise in gas prices.
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Electric cars are the most fuel-efficient option
The high efficiency of electric-drive components in EVs results in superior fuel economy compared to conventional vehicles. This is reflected in the Miles per Gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe) metric, with light-duty all-electric vehicles often exceeding 130 MPGe. In contrast, similar conventional vehicles typically achieve lower MPGe ratings. For example, the 2024 Toyota Corolla Hybrid is estimated to have a combined city-and-highway fuel economy of 50 MPG, while the conventional 2024 Corolla is estimated at only 35 MPG.
EVs also offer flexible charging options, as they can be charged at home, the workplace, or public charging stations. This accessibility to the electric grid ensures that EV drivers can conveniently charge their vehicles near most parking locations. Additionally, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) provide the added flexibility of being able to refuel with gasoline or diesel when necessary.
While it is important to consider the emissions associated with EV battery production and charging, research shows that EVs generally have a lower environmental impact than traditional gasoline-powered cars. This is especially true in regions that primarily use renewable energy sources, such as hydropower, wind, and solar power. Over their driving lifetimes, EVs will typically produce fewer carbon emissions than gasoline-powered cars, contributing to a more sustainable transportation system.
Furthermore, EVs are more energy-efficient than gasoline vehicles in terms of converting energy into movement. EVs utilize 87%–91% of the energy from the battery and regenerative braking for propulsion, whereas gasoline vehicles only convert about 16%–25% of the energy from gasoline. This higher energy efficiency in EVs translates into reduced fuel costs for drivers.
In conclusion, electric cars are the most fuel-efficient option available to consumers. They offer improved fuel economy, lower fuel expenses, and reduced emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. With advancements in technology and the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources, the fuel efficiency of EVs is expected to further improve in the future.
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Frequently asked questions
The 2024 Mitsubishi Mirage is the least thirsty gas-powered car sold today and is the most affordable with a starting price of just under $18,000. The 2024 Honda Civic is another fuel-efficient car, with the most efficient model being the mid-level EX, rated at 33/42/36 mpg. The 2024 Hyundai Elantra also offers a variety of engine and transmission choices, with the base SE being the most fuel-efficient at 32/41/36 mpg. The Toyota Prius is a well-known hybrid with a base LE trim that is the most efficient at 57/56/57 mpg.
You can calculate your car's fuel efficiency by keeping track of the odometer and trip meter. The odometer records the total number of kilometres your car has travelled, while the trip meter allows you to record the distance travelled for a specific journey. Some cars feature two trip meters, Trip A and Trip B, which can be used to measure efficiency between fills and calculate the total trip efficiency. Additionally, it is recommended to stick to the same fuel pump and brand of fuel for consistency, as these factors can affect fuel efficiency.
PLX Devices offers the Kiwi, a full-featured meter that works with OBD II vehicles and includes "Green Driving" lessons to improve fuel efficiency. The Kiwi MPG displays instantaneous mpg, trip mpg, and dollars of gas consumed. The Kiwi WiFi is also available for iPhone and iPod Touch users, which connects to compatible auto-performance apps. Another option is the ScanGauge II from Linear Logic, which is popular among hypermilers.
