21) Driving a hybrid car. things to know? 

Driving Tips

1. Gas is consumed more quickly during hard acceleration so if you resist from jamming on the gas pedal when the light turns green, you stand to improve your mileage significantly. By tapping an SUV's big V8 routinely, for example, your mileage could drop from 16 to 12 miles per gallon. That doesn't sound like much but, in fact, it is a 25-percent reduction. Over the life of the car, the savings will add up.

2. Traffic studies have shown that changing lanes doesn't result in a significantly reduced travel time. So why not choose your lane and put it in cruise control? This avoids constant surging as you speed into the open lane. It will lower your fuel consumption and your blood pressure.

3. Ever notice how people like to leave their cars idling while they talk to their neighbor or jump out to run an errand? This wastes more gas than you would think. Most hybrids save gas by automatically shutting off at stoplights. We're not suggesting you do this. But if you are going to be motionless for a few minutes, shut  down.

4.  This tip saves a bundle. You've already done it? OK. But at least we got a longer-looking list of recommendations. Seriously, though, check the truck and see if you're carrying around a lot of extra weight. Take out the sacks of concrete and you might notice an improvement in your fuel economy.

Looking for ways to improve fuel economy is a just a state of mind.

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Learn more about hybrid cars:

Hybrid Car Technology

Toyota Hybrid Prius

Toyota Hybrid Highlander

Lexus Hybrid RX 400h

Ford Hybrid Escape

Honda Hybrid Accord

Honda Hybrid Insight

Honda Hybrid Civic