Due to the inadequate supply of gas in the world market caused by its increasing demand, gas prices continue to rise to the point that consumers are now very cautious in their purchasing decisions just to minimize gas usage. And because the auto industry doesn’t want to lose profits, it provides plenty of fuel economy advice to the public who want to save a few bucks at the gas station. Most of the time, drivers are advised to increase the fuel economy of their vehicles by minimizing the use of air conditioning, changing filters regularly, checking tire pressure regularly, keeping fuel injectors clean, and using an additive. of fuel to increase engine performance. .
But are consumers really using these tips to save money at the pump?
A recent Kelley Blue Book market research study on fuel economy revealed that 6 out of 10 consumers responded that they would probably change their filters at scheduled intervals and/or check their tire pressure periodically to achieve better fuel economy or save money. Additionally, 7 (68 percent) in 10 consumers say they would save up to $200 a year if they followed some or all of the suggested maintenance tips to save gas in their car.
According to Jack Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com, gas prices have now reached points where consumers are forced to take action they might not have taken when these prices they were relatively lower to improve fuel consumption. economy and save little money. He said if hard-pressed consumers really follow all of the recommended gas-saving tips, chances are they can save as much as 15 to 20 percent of their total annual fuel costs.
However, according to the study result, only a few, or 23 percent, say they would be willing to reduce the use of air conditioning. Even few (17 percent) say they would be willing to periodically clean their vehicles’ fuel injectors, as well as use a fuel additive at every fill-up to improve engine performance (5 percent).
Twenty-six (26) percent or more than a quarter say that to get better fuel economy or save money, they would use all of the fuel-saving tips recommended by Kelley Blue Book; while only 5 percent say they would do nothing.
To improve their fuel economy or money situation, 69 percent of those surveyed are likely to change the vehicle they drive. Twenty-two (22) percent respond that they would buy a hybrid version of a vehicle they already own. Some (14 percent) say they would buy a vehicle with a smaller engine or an engine with less power (because smaller or less efficient engines require only a few amounts of fuel). Twelve percent say they would buy a diesel vehicle, while 31 percent say they wouldn’t trade in their next vehicle to improve fuel economy.
Now in its second generation, the Toyota Prius is nearing its fifth model year and still dominates the hybrid market. But that doesn’t mean the Prius makes Kelley Blue Book KBB.com editors’ picks for the best fuel-efficient cars because the car is unsuitable for every lifestyle. The list is made up of energy efficient favorites packed with something for the consumer.
Jack Nerad, executive editorial director and executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com, said they certainly believe that today’s and tomorrow’s market has and will continue to have an important place for hybrid vehicles. He added that today’s market offers a wide range of vehicles that meet people’s needs and provide truly excellent fuel efficiency.
The Blue Book list includes editors’ top picks, including the Honda Civic Hybrid (small sedan category), Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec (luxury sedan), Nissan Altima Hybrid (midsize sedan), Toyota Tacoma (pickup compact), Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra with catalytic converter GMC (large pickup), Audi TT (coupe), Ford Escape Hybrid (small SUV), Toyota Highlander Hybrid (midsize SUV), GMC Acadia (large SUV), Mazda MX-5 (convertible), Honda Odyssey (minivan), MINI Cooper (hatchback) and Toyota Matrix and Pontiac Vibe (wagon).