Hybrid cars combine the conventional use of gasoline and the fuel efficiency of an electric motor to save drivers money and help save the environment. But just because you're driving a hybrid car doesn't mean you're getting the most fuel economy you could get out of your car. There are several things you can do to maximize your investment in a hybrid car and make your vehicle last as long as possible.
Keep Speeds Down
Even though you're saving gas, that shouldn't be an excuse to put the pedal to the metal at all times. Hybrid cars usually have a threshold at which they switch from electric to gas, so find out what that threshold is in your car and do everything you can to stick to it. Even when you have to go over that number on the freeway or in other conditions, stick to as slow a speed as you need in order to get to your destination safely and on time.
Avoid Multiple Start Ups
Hybrid cars use fuel to start up the engine, according to Toyota, so if you're going multiple places or making quick stops, avoid shutting the car off in between locations if you can do so safely.
Maximize Brake Time
Most of the battery regeneration in hybrid cars comes from braking action, so avoid coming to sudden stops and take advantages of opportunities to stop more slowly, such as when coming to a stoplight or when cruising down a hill. The more time you spend braking, the more charge the battery receives.
Limit Use of Accessories
In regular cars, the battery is only needed to power the lights, radio and other accessories as the car runs. In a hybrid, using multiple accessories drains your battery more quickly since it is also used to make the car run. Thus, avoid plugging in multiple accessories into your car.
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