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WASHINGTON(July 2, 2008) – A new analysis from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) shows that keeping vehicles properly maintained, driving smoothly and using transportation alternatives one day per week can save the average driver about $800 on gas per year. The analysis, “Tuning Up America: Real Relief for High Gas Prices,” evaluates and offers strategies to help drivers save gas with the cars they already own. The potential fuel savings are laid out for the 256 different automatic transmission passenger vehicles sold domestically in the United States in model year 2000.
“Americans are in real pain from high gas prices and getting our cars to go further on every gallon is the fastest way to save money, said Deron Lovaas, transportation policy director for NRDC. “Anyone who claims drilling for oil is the only answer to high gas prices is peddling snake oil to the American people. The ones who benefit from more drilling are big oil companies that stand to reap even more record profits.”
The analysis evaluated three primary strategies for reducing fuel costs at the pump:
Vehicle Maintenance – Tuning up and maintaining the engine, keeping tires properly inflated, using manufacturers’ recommended oil, and removing heavy unnecessary items from trunks and roof racks.
Smooth Driving – Avoiding rapid acceleration and aggressive high-speed driving.
Transportation Alternatives – Replacing single-occupancy car commuting one day a week with public transportation, carpooling, telecommuting or other options.
Savings for Top 10 Bestselling Vehicles in 2000:*
Vehicle Make/Model
Smooth Driving
Maintenance
Commute Less
Ford F-Series
$371
$346
$302
Chevrolet Silverado
$364
$332
$290
Ford Explorer
$371
$346
$302
Toyota Camry
$244
$229
$200
Honda Accord
$254
$240
$209
Ford Taurus
$280
$273
$238
Honda Civic
$219
$203
$178
Ford Focus
$232
$214
$187
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