The car in stock form would get over 30 highway MPGs (on fast Texas highways). In stock form it has excellent aerodynamics (like 0.25 or 0.26 cd). I already have low rolling resistance tires on it and will keep them.
Aside from the weight reduction and engine/transmission selection, some ideas I have for increased economy floating around in my head are:
- skinnier tires to further reduce rolling resistance and make it easier to turn with the manual steering
- replacing the factory motorized side mirrors with something smaller and more aerodynamic
- wheel opening covers or moon style hubcaps
- antenna delete
My goal fuel efficiency wise is to hit 40 MPG at 65MPH driving normally (not interested in hypermiling). That might be a bit lofty, but I think it's in the realm of possibilities. I'm definitely open if any of y'all have any other ideas to make it more efficient or more better in general.