Woodstock, NB - The Canadian Petroleum Manufacturers Association (CPMA) responded this week to criticism that Canadian Manufacturers are taking unfair advantage of  the rise in global oil prices.  Charles Smith, Chairman of CPMA, said that the increase in gasoline prices should not affect the pocket book of the average Canadian.  “If Canadians learned to drive efficiently, took better care of their vehicles, and planned their trips more wisely, on average, a driver should be able to increase their fuel economy by 20%” said Mr. Smith.  "I recommend that every Canadian buy a copy of our publication called 'Fuel Consumption and You'.  For a limited time, the CPMA will throw in a high capacity siphone at no extra charge."

The CPMA maintains that if you follow their suggestions you will notice significant improvements in gas mileage, and will need to fill up less often.  The CPMA recommends both changing ones driving style and making some minor vehicle modifications. Suggested changes include:

Driving Style:
 

• Slow down.  Try driving under the speed limit instead of over.
• Avoid unnecessary use of brakes. Removing brakes will lighten the vehicle (see vehicle modifications below).
• Tailgate (draft), if it works for NASCAR, it will work for you.
• Coast through stop signs.
• Take short cuts through parks, playgrounds, school yards, wild life reserves.
• Only drive down hill.
• Don’t use lower gears in cars equipped with manual transmissions.
• Convince your passengers that you have run out of gas, and have them push the car short distances.
• Join as many auto clubs as you can.  On long trips take advantage of the 200km of free towing, particularly in mountainous regions.
• Tie your car to the transit bus that passes by your office.

Vehicle Modifications:

• Remove excess weight from your vehicle such as the spare tire, unused seats, molding, rear bumper, sound insulation, glass, etc…
• Fill the tires with heliuim
• Wax your car ten to twelve times a month.
• Use cereal boxes and other household refuse to  make spoilers and airdams to make the car more aerodynamic.  (Note:  Painting cool flames will not increase your mileage.)
• Use big ass hoodscoops to increase air/fuel mixture ratio.

 
 

Copyright 2000 The Upper Canada Chronicle