Ok, I set my front tires at 40 and my back tires at 38. The max PSI is 44 for my tires. Taking a trip to STL today; we'll see if that makes any difference.
Well back from STL. I'd say it was successful. After inflating my tires more, I was averaging 54mpg (computer) going 65mph on the hwy with cruise control set. I'd say 75% HWY and 25% city. After we picked up my hubby and added 200+lbs to the car we averaged 51.6mpg (computer) with him driving instead of me. Still an improvement over 46!!! Can't wait to get LRR tires on and see what difference that makes!
Things are going in the right direction. It is difficult for me in the UK to advise on US tyres, but opinion in PC appears to favor "Michelin Energy Saver AS" tyres. I suggest you look at the link below with lots of good information from fellow PC'er F8L. Low Rolling Resistance replacement tires: Current List John (Britprius)
Wow. I didn't know tire pressure would affect MPG that much. I'm going to have to check my tire pressure more often.
I was getting 44mpg from 49. Turns out my tires were at 32 and 29. Now getting 50. Tires at 40 and 38.
I priced Michelin energy saver A/S today at Sams, Sears and Big O Tires. I can get them installed and out the door for $479. My only concern is driving in snow. I was considering the PureContact tires but for some reason Sears doesn't offer a warranty with them? Or at least that's what it showed in their computer system. Thinking I should just stick with the Energy Savers.
I just wanted to also mention that the '04-'09 gets an average of 46 MPG. First generation Prius only got 41 MPG. The '10-Present is supposed to get a bit better at 50. The techs at Toyota are aiming for 55 MPG in the 2015 (4th generation) Prius. Next-gen Toyota Prius aiming for 55 mpg, could arrive in 2015 With all that said, I've noticed that I have completely transformed the way I drive (Mazda Miata) and adapted to the way of the Prius. I watched this video last night and I noticed a marked improvement on my on-board consumption gauges: Max MPG Driving Techniques Youtube Video | PriusChat I was averaging about 55 mpg going to and from work, and today, I hit a new high of 62.3 MPG. There's a few big hills and bridges between my house and work which throws my MPG down the hole. However, still a good video! Explains a bit about the technology and how your driving style can drastically change your MPG outcomes.
Even the 'less safe' claim is disputed. Some sources suggest that higher than normal speeds demand higher than regular door label pressures, though the suggested increments I've seen are less than many of us use for improved mpg. But by driving slower, you are definitely reducing the stress on the tires.
If you drive in snowy conditions regularly and don't want to purchase a dedicated set of snow tires and wheels then use the Bridgestone Ecopia EP422 instead of the Energy Saver A/S. they are rated better for snow and are still a top tire for fuel economy, wear and price. America's Tire is having their Labor Day sale this weekend and offer $100 rebate on 4 Best Rated tires of which the EP422 is included. Otherwise wait until one of the big stores offers the $70 Bridgestone rebate. It alternates every month or so at most places.
I suggest you stay in ECO for all of your driving, especially if you start using some high mileage techniques like pulse-and-glide. It makes it a lot easier to control the accelerator and you still have the top end power if you need it.
Thanks to another thread and the German autobahns, here is an example of a suggestion for higher pressure at higher speed: Air Pressure/Load Adjustment for High Speed Driving
Any update on Mastercraft tires? I have Mastercraft Avenger Touring LSR T currently. Mastercraft Avenger Touring LSR T