Tech: How to Get the Most Mileage out of Your Hybrid

| | , , , , ,

Common Sense Tips To Max Your MPG

Hybrid vehicles are becoming a popular option as the eco-friendly phenomenon takes over the world. They’re not as green as fully-electric cars, but they’re often more affordable. For many, they serve as a stepping stone for those stuck on gasoline.

2020 Toyota Prius Hybrid
Hybrids remain a great first step toward electrification

Hybrid cars get excellent mileage, with some models capping out around 59 mpg on the highway. How can you get the most out of your hybrid and maximize your investment?

Drive Smart

If you want to save gas with a standard internal combustion engine, you’d probably try new driving techniques. Don’t accelerate or brake too hard, stay under a certain speed and keep your windows rolled up to optimize aerodynamics. Many of the same rules apply to a hybrid. However, there are other settings you’ll need to consider when behind the wheel.

Take the time to go over your car’s manual and learn the different readouts on your dash. Once you understand the icons, you’ll have a better idea of how to drive your vehicle and make the most of it.

Use EV Mode

If your hybrid has an EV—electric vehicle—mode, learn how to take advantage of it. Most hybrids let you go into EV mode under certain conditions or below a specific speed. Figure out how to activate your car’s electric mode and when best to use it.

Toyota Hybrid Synergy Drive badge
Toyota’s hybrid system is one of the most popular

EV mode lets you switch to using the car’s electric motor, reducing your fuel consumption. It will impact your battery’s charge. However, if gas mileage is what you’re concerned about, EV mode will stretch it a little further.

Maintain Your Engine

Hybrid engines have internal combustion components you’ll need to maintain to get the most mileage out of your ride. Maintenance is essential, just like with standard gasoline engines.

Keep up your regular maintenance schedule, and consider upgrading to synthetic lubricants and additives during your next oil change. Switching to synthetic means your engine can run
longer and hotter before the oil breaks down
. You can even put off your oil change, depending on how far you drive.

Lay Off the Accessories

Using all of your hybrid’s accessories can impact your gas mileage. Accessories drain the battery and make it harder to hit the mileage mark you’re hoping for. For example, running the A/C
on max
can reduce MPG by 5 to 25 percent. Shut the air off once it’s cold and keep headlights off during the day.

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
LEDs like those on the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid save energy

New hybrids have LEDs instead of halogen bulbs, which draw less power. Unless it’s raining, you’re wasting energy by keeping your headlights on when the sun’s up.

Enjoy the Ride

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your daily commute, but don’t have the funds to purchase an electric car, a hybrid is an excellent compromise. Be smart about how you drive and maintain the engine to help you get the best mileage possible.

Photo of author

Scott Huntington

Scott Huntington is a writer who lives in Vermont and covers the world of cars from the Model T to the Model 3 and everything in between. Follow him on Twitter @SMHuntington or check out his car blog, Off The Throttle (https://Offthethrottle.com)
Previous

News: Nio Shows Chinese Crossover in Silicon Valley

Personal: Fidelio II–My New/Old EV for 2020

Next

9 thoughts on “Tech: How to Get the Most Mileage out of Your Hybrid”

  1. Pingback: Tech: How To Get the Most Mileage Out of Your Hybrid – Cars Blog
  2. Pingback: Tips: 6 Ways to Increase Your Fuel Economy – FamilyStruck.com – Providing Auto Service and Information
  3. Pingback: Tips: 6 Ways to Increase Your Fuel Economy | asianfusiontruck.com
  4. Pingback: Tips: 6 Ways to Increase Your Fuel Economy – socalcarshowseries.com
  5. Pingback: Tips: 6 Ways to Increase Your Fuel Economy | MainStreetAutoCare.com - The Auto Maintenance and Repair Expert
  6. Pingback: Tips: 6 Ways to Increase Your Fuel Economy - CHARGINGRENTALS.COM
  7. Pingback: Tips: 6 Ways to Increase Your Fuel Economy | Prius Club

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.