Quote:
Originally Posted by redpoint5
That said, the only reason the Prius has a better city EPA rating is because the speeds are lower than those on the highway.
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Not exactly. The reason the car gets such great city MPG is mostly due to the amount of time the engine shuts itself off (which is every time you release the accelerator, once it's warmed up). EOC for the win.
For that reason, I think you should investigate the hilly side street route. (Though the other concerns are valid: time spent driving & total fuel burn.)
Provided the route isn't infested with stop signs/lights (worst ones are at the bottoms of hills) it could work out very well. You want to lift the accelerator at the summits (which stops the engine) and coast the descents (feather the throttle to cancel regen to maintain speed if necessary). Drive up the next climb. This equals pulse & glide. Equals fantastic MPG.
Generally also avoid using "EV mode" to propel the car, except for low speed futzing around (parking lots, etc. ).
Let us know what you find out!