Quote:
Originally Posted by paul386
The lower the speed the better. The car probably gets its best gas mileage between 30-45MPH. The energy required as a function of speed is a v^3 function. Double your speed and the energy required increased 8 times.
|
Theoretically yes, yet empirically I've now driven my 60 mile commute (highway) at about ever conceivable speed and i consistently get over 27mpg when i can maintain a steady speed of 65-70mph.
I think that modern engines and fuel management systems are too pro-active in maximizing performance to reduce fuel economy to a two term equation.
I just drove to and from Montreal (336 miles each way) and with 4 people on board and some light luggage I got 23mpg with an average speed of 70mph. The temp was -12C (10F) which didn't help matters.