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Old 07-05-2008, 09:37 AM   #19 (permalink)
MetroMPG
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Join Date: Nov 2007
Location: 1000 Islands, Ontario, Canada
Posts: 22,515

Blackfly - '98 Geo Metro
Team Metro
Last 3: 70.09 mpg (US)

MPGiata - '90 Mazda Miata
90 day: 52.71 mpg (US)

Even Fancier Metro - '14 Mitsubishi Mirage top spec
90 day: 70.75 mpg (US)

Appliance car - '14 Mitsubishi Mirage ES (base)
90 day: 52.48 mpg (US)
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Neil - the previous generation smart with the small diesel was sold in Canada for a number of years. The new model the US has now is the same as we get here - gas engine only.

Keith: congrats on the media exposure.

I doubt you'll see any effect with VGs. I've not seen any credible evidence that they make a significant difference on the trailing edge of a bluff bodied vehicle like your smart.

The benefits of a partial boat tail, however, are not theoretical. Properly designed, it will undoubtedly reduce drag & lower highway fuel consumption. As far as aeromods go, the back of the vehicle is definitely where you should focus your attention (both professionally and on your own vehicle!).

Darin
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Project MPGiata! Mods for getting 50+ MPG from a 1990 Miata
Honda mods: Ecomodding my $800 Honda Fit 5-speed beater
Mitsu mods: 70 MPG in my ecomodded, dirt cheap, 3-cylinder Mirage.
Ecodriving test: Manual vs. automatic transmission MPG showdown



EcoModder
has launched a forum for the efficient new Mitsubishi Mirage
www.MetroMPG.com - fuel efficiency info for Geo Metro owners
www.ForkenSwift.com - electric car conversion on a beer budget
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