Quote:
Originally Posted by dubber
Hello
I am from the Netherlands and I drive a 2003 Renault Twingo 1.2 16v 75hp.
In general I get 20.1 km per liter of petrol.
There are some tricks about improving the range but I am interested on the first simpel things to do.
Things what I thought about and I would like your opinions about if it is useful or not are:
- removing the antenna.
- Something can be done with the wheels, I like to keep the standerd 14 inch steel wheels but I think the wheelcaps can be better.
The rear wheel archers can be more closed so that the rear wheel are covered, but with what and how much?
- The panel gaps are relative large, how can I fill this gaps without tape?
The grill and bumper can be more aerodynamic but there has to be cool air to the radiator.
What to do there?
-Other things like less weight is considered.
I would like to have a 6 speed manual but that is to expensive for the benefits.
Are there other relative easy things to do to improve fuel economy?
Thanx in advance
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1). Analysis.
- What is “Dead Minimal Usage” for you? That for which there isn’t an adequate substitute (as some substitutes are penalties of time & energy, etc).
- On a weekly basis: the number of cold starts.
- Besides a work commute, zero in on all other use as separate. In a manner of speaking, only to/from work are paid miles (income offsets them). All other miles are a penalty.
It’s the combination of non-necessary cold starts combined with their penalty miles that should be isolated.
Next, what percentage of miles are at or above 35-mph? (sorry, you’ll make conversions to metric).
Because a road has a speed limit of X does not mean we travel that speed. Metro city street traffic averages 15-mph in US, and local highways average 35-mph.
The time actually spent at speeds where aero mods help can be vanishingly low.
So, find engine hours. Divide that into odometer for Average MPH.
The higher the AVERAGE MPH, generally the higher the Average MPG
Cut out the undisciplined use. Increase the MPH average. Once it settles in where you are comfortable (more changes in operator behavior won’t work per the individual) you have a better baseline.
AND any aero changes to the vehicle stand out.
Personally, I would make no changes that affect design utility or that shorten component life (thus vehicle life).
.