Hypermiling In A Red Cavalier
I've been hearing a lot lately about hypermiling, so much so that about 400 miles ago, I decided to give it a try with my Cavalier. Now, when the Cav was broken in, but not broken, I could get mileage as high as 40 mpg on the highway. My memory says the EPA estimate was 32/34. MotorTrend says the EPA estimate was 25/37. Lately though, the mileage has been closer to 30mpg. The wheel bearings are shot (it's easier to push the ESCAPE than it is to push the CAV) along with the other issues a 13 year old car would have.
So far, the hypermiling has been working out ok. This is my first tank driving that way; so I don't have results yet, but as I get used to how the car handles, I can do more and more. Basically, I've learned that it's nearly downhill from the school to my house, so I can shut the engine off and coast into my driveway. The engine's off for about 30 seconds and I've coasted nearly a half mile. I've been able to figure out areas close to the house where I can coast like that to stop signs/lights with the engine off. For more techniques or for information on hypermiling in general, check out Cleanmpg.com.
This morning as I was leaving for an abdominal Ultrasound (as part of my testing to get back on the Transplant List), I coasted down a hill and when I went to turn the car back on, it wouldn't start. Danielle came to my rescue, but the car wouldn't start with jumper cables. So, I called AAA and they sent someone to jump the car. After cleaning the terminals, the car started right up and it's charging now. I missed the ultrasound, but I really didn't want to go anyway (I just want to sleep - but not in a lazy teenager way, in a my kidney is failing way)
I know, you're thinking, I'm a suave sophisticated blogger raking in 6 figures for typing everyday I should just go out and buy a new car, but that's not the case. In the four years I've been blogging, I've never received a check and my total take from the ads that you see along the side of this blog since the beginning would buy me about a third of a tank of gas. Pitiful isn't it, but then again I don't do it for the money. I'm not sure why I do this, but I know it ain't for the money.
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