Energy - Use + Types + Conservation

[thinkxingu]

Originally Posted by chocophile

When driving on the highway, I drive slower... essentially, I drive the speed limit or maybe just below it.

This has three benefits: it reduces my carbon footprint because I use less gas, I save money, and I gain a slight amount of safety.

Much of the energy expended by a car at high speed is pushing through wind resistance. Wind resistance increases with speed. According to the Dept. of Energy, driving 65 instead of 55 reduces MPG by 16%. Driving 75 reduces it another 16%.

It's true driving slower means that I arrive a little later. But I consider it a worthwhile trade-off.

I think a lot of this depends on the vehicle's design, gearing, etc. I actually get better mileage (per my calculations and onboard computer) at 70 (22+) then I do at 65 (~21). Around 75, it begins to dip. If staying at 30-40 on back roads, I can hit mid-30's in my 4Runner!

In terms of safety, under 70 becomes unsafe...at least on Route 3 South between 6-8 AM and 3-5 PM!

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