MPG Meters
One of the key tools hypermilers use to obtain real time feedback on their driving habits are MPG Meters. MPG Meters work different ways and come with different features, but in general provide some type of display provides feedback on the Miles Per Gallon (MPG) you are currently getting.
Types of MPG Meters
there are many different mpg meters available on the market. The two main types are: Digital and momentum based. Digital meters are often found built into some of today's modern cars and trucks. The only problem with built in mpg meters is they don't often provide real-time data, but average data over time.
Momentum Meters
Momentum based MPG Meters, like the Moment-O-Meter MPG-PLUS, utilize technology that senses your forward and backwards momentum and provides visual feedback as to whether that momentum is is strong enough to cause you to be using excess gas and therefore reducing your MPGs. A red light is shown when your momentum is too strong.
On the other hand, if you accelerate and brake slowly, you'll stay within a range that provides optimum MPGs and you'll see a green light. Of course when driving, you should always target maintaining a green light to receive maximum gas mileage.
Digital Meters
Digital meters provide the ultimate in accurate driving feedback. Digital meters, such as the ScanGaugeII look into your cars computer system and provide immediate and accurate feedback on the current gas mileage you are getting based on your driving habits. The advantage digital mpg meters have over momentum based mpg meters is that you can more accurately fine tune your driving habits.
Additionally, digital meters provide additional information available from your cars computer such as current speed, RPMs, volts, etc.
Benefits of MPG Meters
In order to maximize your driving habits for optimal gas mileage, immediate feedback on the impacts of your driving must be known. Momentum or digital MPG Meters provide this immediate and real-time feedback. This real-time feedback allows you improve on your habits so obtain optimal gas mileage. Some hypermilers even set MPG targets and adjust and tweak their driving to get closer and closer to their target goal, almost making it a game.
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