How is it much more fuel efficient to travel at say 50 mph for longer than 70 mph for a shorter period of time. Like if I was going a set distance, if I drive slower I’m using the car longer so why isn’t it the same fuel being used.

770 views

How is it much more fuel efficient to travel at say 50 mph for longer than 70 mph for a shorter period of time. Like if I was going a set distance, if I drive slower I’m using the car longer so why isn’t it the same fuel being used.

In: 15

18 Answers

Anonymous 0 Comments

In addition to wind resistance, most engines and transmissions are more efficient at 50 mph than 70. Picture a bicycle: at a high speed and a high gear, you can cruise along with slow, leisurely pedaling. If you wanted to go 30% faster, you could – but you’d have to pedal like crazy, which would tire you out faster.

You are viewing 1 out of 18 answers, click here to view all answers.