New Analysis Reveals Comprehensive Approach to Saving Money on Gas Today

Simple Strategies are Sure-Fire Ways for Drivers to Save Cash by Saving Gas

WASHINGTON,-- A new analysis from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) shows that keeping vehicles properly maintained, driving smoothly and using transportation alternatives one day per week can save the average driver about $800 on gas per year. The analysis, "Tuning Up America: Real Relief for High Gas Prices," evaluates and offers strategies to help drivers save gas with the cars they already own. The potential fuel savings are laid out for the 256 different automatic transmission passenger vehicles sold domestically in the United States in model year 2000.

"Americans are in real pain from high gas prices and getting our cars to go further on every gallon is the fastest way to save money," said Deron Lovaas, transportation policy director for NRDC. "Anyone who claims drilling for oil is the only answer to high gas prices is peddling snake oil to the American people. The ones who benefit from more drilling are big oil companies that stand to reap even more record profits."

The analysis evaluated three primary strategies for reducing fuel costs at the pump:

Vehicle Maintenance - Tuning up and maintaining the engine, keeping tires properly inflated, using manufacturers' recommended oil, and removing heavy unnecessary items from trunks and roof racks.

Smooth Driving - Avoiding rapid acceleration and aggressive high-speed driving.

Transportation Alternatives - Replacing single-occupancy car commuting one day a week with public transportation, carpooling, telecommuting or other options.

  Savings for Top 10 Bestselling Vehicles in 2000:*

  Vehicle Make/Model
  Smooth Driving
  Maintenance
  Commute Less

  Ford F-Series
  $371
  $346
  $302

  Chevrolet Silverado
  $364
  $332
  $290

  Ford Explorer
  $371
  $346
  $302

  Toyota Camry
  $244
  $229
  $200

  Honda Accord
  $254
  $240
  $209

  Ford Taurus
  $280
  $273
  $238

  Honda Civic
  $219
  $203
  $178

  Ford Focus
  $232
  $214
  $187

  Dodge Caravan
  $292
  $271
  $237

  Jeep Grand Cherokee
  $351
  $326
  $284

*Savings are based on making the most of the tips listed above and may vary depending on vehicle condition and previous driving habits.

"The right way to deal with high gas prices is by reducing demand through greater efficiency," said Jim Presswood, energy analyst at NRDC. "We should not open up pristine areas for a drop in the bucket of oil. We have proven ways at our fingertips to save gas, by promoting fuel-efficient technology."

To read the full analysis, go to http://www.nrdc.org/energy/fuelsavings.pdf.

To see the data for all 256 models go to: http://www.nrdc.org/energy/fuelsavings-table.html.

The Natural Resources Defense Council is a national, nonprofit organization of scientists, lawyers and environmental specialists dedicated to protecting public health and the environment. Founded in 1970, NRDC has 1.2 million members and online activists, served from offices in New York, Washington, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Beijing. More information on NRDC is available at its Web site: www.nrdc.org.