Going to Reno Nevada

Warmer weather may be a factor in your increased mpg if other conditions unchanged. I just calculated my mpg and it was 60.5 mpg over 1440 miles during August.

 

Excellent!

If you can just record trip meter data, all three values, for each leg on the highway along with start and stop locations, we can add these segments to the "mph vs MPG" chart. We'll use the calibration curve to correct for actual MPG. Then if you can use the other trip meter for each fill-up, we'll have a complete profile of how the 2010 performed on your trip!

SAFE DRIVING! (because I know it will be fun!)

Bob Wilson

 

Bob,

I'd like to contribute some data. I'm going to go to Albany, NY from Columbus, OH over this Labor Day weekend. Please explain how to record the data, especially the three values you mentioned.

Here is my itinerary:

Friday afternoon to pick up my wife at work and daughter at school, all local roads. Then drive about 30 miles to drop off my dog, mostly freeway, finally en route to Olean, NY and stay overnight. Next day morning continue to Albany, NY. Returning trip is similar.

Thanks.

 

Just have a handy note pad and pen. Use one trip meter, say "B", to record each fill-up. Record the three values: miles, MPG and average speed. Then add the gallons from the gas receipt. This is used to check the calibration of the MPG display versus calculated MPG. So we can then get a more accurate calibration curve:


Try to remember to reset the "B" display when you are about to leave the gas station or after you've recorded the data.

The other trip meter should be used once you reach a steady cruising speed ... hopefully mostly maintained by the cruise control. Just flip to "A" after getting everything set and reset the trip meter. Then when you go to pull off, either memorize the three values or better still, ask a passenger to write them down for you. Don't worry if you pull off and within a mile or so record the numbers. This will provide a data point for the "mph vs MPG" chart. Also, don't worry about small changes like having to follow slow traffic or having to pass someone. We're really interested in the trip meter recorded speed for the segment so 'enjoy.'

It is also nice if you can report things like "head wind," "rain" or "temperature" and starting and ending locations like an Interstate exit. These let us understand how different conditions impact MPG ... but any data ... even incomplete is better than no data. Here is what we're looking to add to:


With a chart like this, anyone can make informed decisions to trade-off speed for fuel efficiency. The time of you and your passengers has value too and sometimes schedules have to be met. This is not a contest, it is research and everyone's data help all to master this wonderful vehicle. So whatever values you bring back at any speeds will be accepted gratefully.

Thanks,
Bob Wilson