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Orcrone · #2 (**permalink**) 07-20-2006, 05:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SilverToyCam

Ok...I run with my AC set to 72, fan speed is usually medium (3-4 bars), then when the car cools down, I drop it to 1-2 bars. The AC is always set on ECO mode. I drive approximately 9 miles to work with 16 lights/stop signs. The speed limit ranges from 25 - 55 during the drive. I've been coasting whenever I can and trying to lightly use the gas pedal, which then causes me to go under the speed limit, then I apply gas gently to get the speed back up. I find I'm constantly gently pumping the gas pedal during the trip. I've gone a little over 500 miles. I've filled up once and still have 400 to go on the tank. I find myself tensing up during the drive and have to consciously relax myself and I'm only getting 31.8 MPG. My car also has the nav system. What am I doing wrong? Why am I only getting 31.8? I was hoping for 35MPG

There is another thread regarding low mileage. You may want to check that out.

I would suggest applying the gas pedal a little less gently and get back to speed that much more quickly so you just have to maintain speed.
Watch your instantaneous mpg gauge and learn from it. WVGasGuy has correctly pointed out that there are times you'll accelerate, reach speed and notice that you're getting 20 mpg. You then ease off the gas and still maintain speed, but you're mileage has gone to 40 mpg.
On stretches below about 40 mph accelerate a couple of mph above your desired speed, totally release the gas pedal until the ICE turns off (instantaneous mpg gauge pegged at bottom) and give it a little gas to keep it at the speed without the ICE turning back on.
Anticipate lights. If you see a red light 1/2 mile away stay in the right lane and take your foot off the gas. You'll lose a little speed, recharge the batteries and hopefully not have to slow down as much before the green.
Generally you DON'T want to accelerate in electric mode. Toyota's literature claims the car will run on the traction motor alone during light to moderate acceleration. Bulls@#$. The ICE will kick in at anything except the angonizingly slowest acceleration. Plus you'll use up way too much battery getting to speed. You're much better off moderately accelerating to speed and then using the traction motor to hold you there. I'll only use the traction motor to accelerate when I'm on base and the speed limit is 15 mph.

Hope you see better mileage.