higher engine load ok for hypermiling?
 

Is it ok to increase engine load if my air fuel ratio stays the same when accelerating? My car stays stoich under 2400rpm below ~95% Manifold Pressure (city driving). However on the highway if i exceed 80% load because of higher RPMs car goes open loop instantly. I have been targeting 70% MAP/LOD and shifting at 2500rpm with great results, thats usually faster than flow of traffic, but i like accelerating and changing gears quickly sometimes.

It depends. If you want to get really picky you can try watching ignition timing. The more it retards the more you loose efficiency. I've personally found this to be futile as it jumps around way too much.

difference between say 95% LOD and 70% load is 5 degrees ignition advance for around 2500RPM engine speeds.