Hyperest-miling: 1,445 miles on a tank of gas in a Ford Fusion Hybrid[SIZE=-1]
*The 69-straight hours of driving took place over a loop of public roads in Northern Virginia, using the George Washington Parkway as their proving ground. This loop included open roads, as well as stop-and-go traffic through downtown Alexandria, Virginia.
Having lived in that area, I know how both the traffic speed and density vary greatly along that route. So I spoke with Jay Ward from Ford with a few questions about the trip. He told me that they specifically chose a weekend, with its lighter traffic, to run the trail, but that they went much further than they thought they would and, consequently, ended up driving during weekday rush-hour traffic.
According to Jay, the average speed on the entire trip worked out to about 25 mph, although on the northern loop of the GW Parkway they drove around 35-40 mph to keep up with traffic. They were actually stopped by the police ? for going too slowly! Each driver was instructed to drive with safety in mind before mileage. And high-visibility graphics were applied to the rear of the car for nighttime use.
They didn?t drive in any sort of caravan to block traffic or aid aerodynamics, and drove in a ?convoy? only when photos or videos were shot. Still, they received their share of honks from other drivers who wanted to go faster.
Still, what does this mean for the consumer? Well, hypermiling certainly works, but safely keeping up with traffic flow is more important than absolute mileage. (Read our tips on how to improve the mileage on every car you drive.)
Consumer Reports has purchased a new Fusion Hybrid and it has racked up over 2,000 break-in miles. So far, we?re really impressed at its ability to combine an enjoyable driving experience with high fuel economy in a roomy family sedan. Even at ?normal? speeds, we?ve seen over 600-mile cruising ranges on some trips. We?re marveling at the over 35 mpg we routinely experience in our commutes.
That said, whether it can best the overall fuel economy (including our city, highway, and trip test cycles) of its competitors, such as the Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry hybrids, remains to be seen. And perhaps we?ll stock up on the caffeinated drinks and do our own ?run until empty? challenge. So if you spot a slow moving Fusion Hybrid somewhere in Southeastern Connecticut, near our 327-acre test facility, please don?t honk.
Also read: "Ford Fusion ? The best car you don?t know about."
?Jon Linkov
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