The Gorilla is always on the lookout for relevant news stories which address issues that affect us each day. Gasoline is one of those major issues that you just can’t hide from. Every day, we are hearing stories upon stories about high gas prices and how much they are affecting all of us. Unlike the electric bill, which only comes once a month, we must reckon with paying for our gasoline at least once a week. With gas prices at almost $3.60 per gallon now, we must do all we can to make our gasoline dollars last as long as possible. To do this, the U.S. government is offering help on it’s consumer web site www.fueleconomy.gov, with tips to help consumers drive more efficiently and keep their cars in good shape. (Hey, it has even crossed the Gorilla’s mind lately to drive less if possible and take shortcuts to save on gas.)In mid-May, the non-profit, Alliance to Save Energy, will launch a national campaign aimed at helping consumers save hundreds of dollars through fuel-efficient driving and proper maintenance. The Alliance’s campaign will set out to help consumers cut gas consumption. Its web site (www.drivesmarterchallenge.org) will offer a calculator that will allow consumers to plug in the type of car they drive and determine how much money six different changes in driving or maintenance activities will save them. The site is a great tool because with the six different tips it gives you depending on the type of car you drive, and other factors that you plug in, it can potentially save you hundreds of dollars per year on gasoline. Some of the tips include keeping tires inflated (pretty much common sense), and using high grade oils.
David Champion, who is the director of automobile testing for consumer reports, says that ”just slowing down from 75 miles per hour to 70 mph can significantly improve gas mileage.” The Gorilla thinks we can all do our part to save gasoline, and in turn, energy. The Gorilla is one primate who really likes to drive fast, but since gas prices have gone up, he too, is driving slower. He has noticed that his gas is definitely lasting a bit longer now. Hey, don’t knock it! Every little bit helps. More helpful tips from Consumer Reports can be found at www.consumerreports.org/fuel.nd.