Driving an EX like a hybrid....
#11
Re: Driving an EX like a hybrid....
To philmcneal:
there is no reason to downshift to a lower gear--use the highest reasonable gear for the acceleration phase, and then coast in neutral. works on any car, manual, automatic. Using ~1/2-3/4 throttle (relatively strong) acceleration is actually more efficient (ICE engines are more efficient at high loads UP TO A POINT of ~70-80% of load, when they start being much less efficient b/c they start running rich).
Of course, if you decelerate as low as 50 km/h, then you might need a lower gear than 5th. but in general, highest possible gear the best.
there is no reason to downshift to a lower gear--use the highest reasonable gear for the acceleration phase, and then coast in neutral. works on any car, manual, automatic. Using ~1/2-3/4 throttle (relatively strong) acceleration is actually more efficient (ICE engines are more efficient at high loads UP TO A POINT of ~70-80% of load, when they start being much less efficient b/c they start running rich).
Of course, if you decelerate as low as 50 km/h, then you might need a lower gear than 5th. but in general, highest possible gear the best.
#13
Re: Driving an EX like a hybrid....
I have previously owned a Civic EX and used to love that car. At that time, I was always getting in trouble with speed. I would add modifications to "try" to be faster. I went to motorcycles right after, then with only motorcycles. Now that rain was going to hit San Diego, I decided to jump on the Hybrid wagon.
Mentally I am glad I made that transition. It feels that, when in a hybrid and you know you dont have the HP, you maintain a moderate speed. When you know you have a "fast" car, you are always pushing the pedal "as if gas was free".
Anyways.. I just wanted to add my $.02
Everybody should drive as though they have a Hybrid, even though they may not have one. No reason to go fast... wake up early, take your time to go to work/school, get a cup of coffee on the way and CHILL !
Mentally I am glad I made that transition. It feels that, when in a hybrid and you know you dont have the HP, you maintain a moderate speed. When you know you have a "fast" car, you are always pushing the pedal "as if gas was free".
Anyways.. I just wanted to add my $.02
Everybody should drive as though they have a Hybrid, even though they may not have one. No reason to go fast... wake up early, take your time to go to work/school, get a cup of coffee on the way and CHILL !
#14
Re: Driving an EX like a hybrid....
Getting around 33mpg on a EX is not a bad thing. With careful driving and replacing parts on the EX with Hybrid cosmetics, it may even prove to be similar to normal usage. Understanding that some people on this forum have gotten MPGs up to 60+ from their Hybrids, not everyone does. Miles vary from place to place and how far you have to drive. I know I get around 33-35mpg driving carefully but I admit my commute is only 15 miles one way. The EX is still very fuel efficient and a smart choice for people whom don't share the same views as Hybrid owners but are conscience of the environment.
#15
Re: Driving an EX like a hybrid....
Its almost impossible for me to reach those MPG #'s with all the elevation changes in my area. Majority of people who get those CRAZY numbers live in "flat lands".
#17
Re: Driving an EX like a hybrid....
I know what you mean. What part of SD do you live in? I live in N county and it's just hill after hill....
#18
Re: Driving an EX like a hybrid....
A very nice guy and I sent many PM's to him but never received any reply. Know way of being sure but it seems that something must have happened to him "BAD".
He will be missed by me (Terry) and Others on the different Forums.
Terry
#20
Re: Driving an EX like a hybrid....
I filled the gas up to the rim and I have about a 1/4 tank left with 375 miles. We will see how much further it takes me.