DOT website offers gas-saving tips

Many of the tips involve small changes to driving habits, such as going slower, using cruise control and cutting off the air conditioner.

Posted 9:10 p.m. Apr 28, 2010 — Updated 10:58 p.m. Apr 28, 2010

RALEIGH, N.C. — With gasoline prices nearing the $3 mark, the North Carolina Department of Transportation has launched a new website aimed at helping drivers get more mileage per gallon.

Many of the tips involve small changes to driving habits, such as going slower, using cruise control and cutting off the air conditioner. For example:

Flooring the gas pedal at green lights and breaking quickly at red lights can increase fuel consumption by up to 40 percent.
It takes 20 percent more fuel to accelerate from a full stop than it does from 5 mph.
Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. For each additional 5 mph afterward, it is like paying an extra 20 to 24 cents per gallon for gasoline.
Air conditioning can use up to a gallon of gas, but at higher speeds, open windows can produce aerodynamic drag, which reduces fuel economy. Keep windows open when driving slower than 40 mph and use the air conditioner at higher speeds.

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