| Westlake,
OH � May 2004 � With the peak summer driving season almost upon us, many
families may be concerned that record-high gasoline prices might take some
of the fun out of their summer vacations. TravelCenters
of America (TA), the nation�s largest network of full-service travel
centers, suggests that there are several easy, common-sense ways for everyone
to reduce fuel consumption on a road trip and still have money left over
to purchase an extra souvenir or two.
�Practicing
good fuel economy has always made sense, but with this year�s gas prices,
families and business travelers alike are more concerned than ever about
keeping their fuel costs down,� said Ed Kuhn, TA chairman, president and
chief executive officer. �Fortunately, there are many things a driver can
do to take at least some of the sting out of today�s prices, and to increase
safety at the same time.�
The
following tips can help anyone save money and be safer on the road:
-
Drive
safely. Speeding, rapid acceleration and frequent braking can lower gas
mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds. Gas mileage decreases rapidly
at speeds above 60 miles per hour. Excessive idling also wastes gas.
-
If
your car has cruise control, use it. Most drivers will be able to save
gas by using cruise control at highway speeds. However, cruise control
is not recommended for hilly areas, heavy traffic or slick road conditions.
-
Make
sure your car is well-maintained. Getting a tune-up can improve gas mileage
by 4 percent or more. Repairing a faulty oxygen sensor can increase gas
mileage by as much as 40 percent. Replacing an old air filter can mean
a 10 percent improvement in gas mileage. Using the right grade of motor
oil can improve gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent.
-
Keep
tires properly inflated. Gas mileage can be improved by 3.3 percent if
tires are kept at their proper pressure.
-
Avoid
driving during rush hour. On long trips, try to schedule rest stops and
meals during rush hours if you are traveling through well-populated areas.
Spending less time sitting in traffic will consume less fuel.
-
Travel
light. Every 100 pounds can reduce gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent. A fully
loaded roof rack can decrease gas mileage by 5 percent.
�We
hope these guidelines can help families continue to enjoy the cherished
American tradition of traveling the nation�s highways during the coming
summer months,� Kuhn said.
About
TravelCenters of America
TravelCenters
of America, headquartered in Westlake, Ohio, is the largest network of
full-service travel centers in the country, with 10,500 people at 150 locations
in 41 states and Canada. With 30 years of experience, TravelCenters of
America has established itself as a leader in serving professional drivers
and motorists alike. For more information, go to: www.tatravelcenters.com.
Contact:
TravelCenters
of America
Tom
Liutkus, 440-808-7364
liutkus.tom@tatravelcenters.com |
