Some tips for saving cash on gasoline

GAS IS STILL CHEAP!

Look around. There are plenty of motorists who apparently believe gas prices are no problem: jackrabbit starts from the light, speeding to a red traffic light; weaving in and out of traffic at NASCAR speeds; and more.

For further evidence that many drivers are unconcerned about fuel pricing, drive the speed limit on Interstate 26 or I-526 and observe how many cars or trucks you pass. Also, count the number of vehicles that pass you. Are these the same people complaining about gas prices?

Politicians and others are advocating the revocation of the 18 cents federal tax on a gallon of gas during the summer months. This is a reminder of the same type of advocates a few years ago who were calling for increases of 50 cents to $1 a gallon in gas taxes, ostensibly to curb usage. We don't hear from those folks today.

But, despite the number of motorists who are blatantly wasting fuel, there are some who are intensely concerned about conservation. There are many ways to get more miles-per-gallon from your vehicle. This could be the time to review various means. Over the past few years, this column has covered various gas-saving suggestions.

For those of you truly wishing to save money on gas, please read on.

-- Running the air-conditioning system can increase fuel usage 15 percent.

-- Idling the engine at a drive-in wastes fuel.

-- Check tire inflation monthly.

-- Follow the manufacturer's vehicle maintenance procedures on such things as air and oil filters, spark plugs and emissions.

-- Plan errands; make one trip instead of several.

-- Share the ride.

-- Wash the car. Dirty cars can cause 10-16 percent more in gas costs.

-- Avoid heavy traffic and leave earlier.

-- Gradually accelerate from stops.

-- Instead of racing to a red traffic light, coast.

-- Reduce speeds. If every driver in the United States reduced average speed by 10 miles per hour, 3 million gallons of gas would be saved every day.

-- Watch loading the car. Loaded trunks reduce mileage.

-- Drive no more than the posted speed.

-- Avoid "road rage" and aggressive driving. This type of driver behavior can burn 33 percent more fuel.

By the way, as stated earlier, this writer does not join the chorus for switching from larger cars to small vehicles, unless driving a less-safe car appeals to you. The National Academy of Sciences reports a shift to lighter-weight cars could contribute to as many as 2,600 highway deaths a year. In addition, I do not want to lose readers.

George Spaulding is a retired General Motors executive and distinguished executive-in-residence emeritus at the School of Business and Economics at the College of Charleston. He can be reached at 2 Wharfside St. 2A Charleston SC 29401.