Fuel Economy, Hypermiling, EcoModding News and Forum - EcoModder.com - View Single Post - real effect of head wind and tail wind on mpg

JRMichler · 10-14-2011, 08:29 PM

Here's some data to play with. Today I drove straight west 80 miles against a direct headwind. The wind was 15 MPH gusting to 25, temperature 45 degrees, elevation same at both ends. Stayed long enough for the engine to cool off, then returned. Same route, same wind, temperature 48 degrees F. Same speed both ways - 55 MPH. No drafting either direction.

31.0 MPG going, 38.2 MPG return.

Engine efficiency was lower on the return, with much of the trip at only 6 to 7 PSI MAP. One more gear in the transmission would have been nice.

10-14-2011, 08:29 PM	#14 (permalink)
JRMichler Master EcoModder Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Phillips, WI Posts: 1,018 Nameless - '06 GMC Canyon 90 day: 37.45 mpg (US) 22 Maverick - '22 Ford Maverick XL 90 day: 42.6 mpg (US) Thanks: 192 Thanked 467 Times in 287 Posts	Here's some data to play with. Today I drove straight west 80 miles against a direct headwind. The wind was 15 MPH gusting to 25, temperature 45 degrees, elevation same at both ends. Stayed long enough for the engine to cool off, then returned. Same route, same wind, temperature 48 degrees F. Same speed both ways - 55 MPH. No drafting either direction. 31.0 MPG going, 38.2 MPG return. Engine efficiency was lower on the return, with much of the trip at only 6 to 7 PSI MAP. One more gear in the transmission would have been nice.