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Does driving on the highway save gas?

With rising gasoline prices, I’m searching for ways to save money at the pump. When I looked at the fuel economy of my car, I noticed that it gets better mileage on the highway. Will driving on the highway save gas?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Gasoline and oil prices are always sources of concern for your finances, so you’re making a savvy play! To answer your question, driving on the highway can save you gas compared to city driving.
The reason that highway driving saves gas is that you maintain a consistent speed, which equates to maximum engine efficiency. When you’re going at the same speed, your engine doesn’t need extra fuel for acceleration. Moreover, you don’t have the starts, stops, and idling like you do in the city, all of which can wreck your
gas mileage
.
However, you may have to focus on the point of diminishing returns. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, most cars have a sweet spot for fuel efficiency. As a general rule, most vehicles reach this at between 50 and 60 mph. So if you’re on an open road with a higher speed limit, cruising between these speeds will maximize your fuel economy.
Improving your fuel economy through steady speeds and controlled driving is a great way to save money at the pump. But when it comes to car insurance,
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