Fight the Cold! Or, How New England (Without Snow) Killed My MPG
 

Now, I'm new (to Boston). So I haven't experienced a real New England winter yet. Still, the cold weather has finally arrived. My fuel economy seems to have an inverse relationship with the temperature. Summer: 25-30MPG (depending). Now? Fighting for 20.

Can anyone else with a hybrid comment? Any "best practices" to fight cold-induced MPG drain on short trips through hilly terrain? Yes, I'm fully aware that's a trifecta of fail, but there's nothing I can do about it.

No hybrid here but this is my list:
1. Grill Block
2. Block Heater
3. Migrate South

Kirk

Check to see if your car automatically turns on the A/C when the defrost is on. If so, pull the fuse or something.

Any aero improvements help even more in the winter, since cold air is denser than warmer air. And as already noted, warm up time is key -- grill blocks and block heaters and efficient trip planning, too. Drive the farthest destination first, and then make short hops after the car is warmed up on the way back.

Coasting!
 

Hi,

Coasting can be a secret tool used to get big MPG's.

I typically can raise my fuel economy from "only" 70mpg to close to 90mpg just by adding in some coasting on the way to work.

I have added a FAS (forced auto stall) system to my car, and I can say that it really helps.

Jim.

Jim,

Do you "owe" us some new pictures? Your avatar looks really sweet.

Hi Neil,

I posted some new pictures here, late last fall....

https://picasaweb.google.com/threewh...tTailExtension

Check the last 14 pictures or so.

Jim.

The other's tips are good. Some additional hybrid info, if you have a Scangauge (and you should!) keep an eye on coolant temps. If your coolant temp drops too low (~155F I think) it won't engine off. This also means you must keep an eye on your heater usage.

our prius has to go some 15km (9,3mls) usualy. it is possibil to hold the engines temperature all the way down, with the A/C. no chance to get hybrid stage 4, even after 6mls at 60mph.

but the car isn´t warme inside anyway. somewhat less target temperatur, and switching off the A/C if not neccecary, helps a lot. put some drying packs (from electronic stuff or paintballs f.i.) into the car, to keep the windows free.

a grill block is crucial. i prefer foam stripes and my numberplate is blocking a big part all seasons. but without a scangauge u are pretty much blind, at temperature managing.