RAC Condemns “Hypermiling”

While fuel-saving measures such as keeping your tyres at the correct pressure and driving intelligently are both praiseworthy and sensible, there are fears that some drivers are going too far in their efforts to improve mileage.

Such motorists are known as “hypermilers” and will try almost anything in their efforts to improve economy. Tactics include tailgating and over-inflating tyres (sometimes by as much as 10 – 15 psi) and coasting in neutral with the engine off. The RAC urges motorists not to copy hypermilers, pointing out that many of the techniques and practices used are unsafe, if not actually illegal. The organisation makes the point that there is a huge difference between being a cost-conscious motorist and a hypermiler.

RAC spokesman Louise Zucchi says: “We can well understand why motorists in these days of the credit crunch would want to make as many savings on fuel as possible. Indeed, we would endorse such tips as avoiding fierce acceleration and turning off the air-con. But it is a very different matter when it comes to some other suggestions such as over-inflating tyres and tailgating. Such methods endanger the driver and other road users and can never be recommended.”