Wanna Go Hypermiling With Me?

Hypermiling.  Sounds like some kind of extreme sport - like zip lining or bungee jumping.  Some would argue that it IS an extreme sport and is a dangerous way to try to save on gas.  But many think it's a smart way to increase fuel efficiency and lower emissions.

It's a whole new way to drive, that's for sure.  And you can learn all about it at Hypermiling.com.  At its most basic, the premise seems to be that LESS acceleration = LESS braking = LESS time stopped at stoplights = LESS gas consumed.  If you are mildly interested in increasing your MPG, keep these tips in mind :

• Drive the speed limit or less.
• Lay off the brakes!
• Coast whenever possible. 
• Minimize the amount of time your car is not moving.

For those who are into making this an extreme sport:

• Use cruise control to accelerate and decelerate very slowly (using the accel and decel or cancel buttons).
• Coast to a stop in neutral.
• Use the 'pulse and glide' technique to minimize use of the internal combustion engine.
• Coast through stop signs without really stopping.
• Draft behind a semi.

I'm know for a fact that I will never be an expert hypermiler, but I can see the benefit of paying attention to my driving a little more.  My typical 'hurry up and wait' attitude could certainly use some improvement and saving on gas is a big incentive! 

Are there any hypermilers out there?  Please report!

(thanks to sister Julie for turning me on to this eco-friendly but bizarre driving phenomenon!)