Drive Slower, Save Money on Gas. Thanks, Physics!
This article explains the physics behind fuel efficiency, demonstrating that driving at lower speeds consumes less gas. It uses a 30-mile trip example to illustrate how minor increases in speed result in negligible time savings compared to the fuel costs.
Why it matters
Understanding the relationship between speed and fuel consumption helps drivers make more economical and environmentally conscious decisions.
Of course, that means it’ll take longer to get to your destination. A few years ago, I wrote a piece for WIRED on finding an optimal driving speed, assuming the extra drive time costs you money in lost wages (because you punch in later at work). Consider this the holiday edition, where time isn’t money. Instead, I’m going to focus on the physics and show why driving slower uses less gas.
The content is purely educational and based on scientific principles without political or social agenda.
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