Eco-Driving Boosts Mileage By Average Of 24%, According To Ford Tests

We looked at ten different ways to boost your mileage — and how they interfere with the "American way of life" — earlier. As proof that these techniques can make a difference, Ford claims internal tests show that practicing eco-driving improves mileage by an average of 24%. Ford and Pro Formance professionals coached 48 Phoenix-area residents for four days, recording mileage improvements between 6% and 50%, depending upon what type of driver the subject originally was and how adept they were at learning the new driving behaviors. Ford is rightfully touting their research, but they're also being realistic about its applications: The chances of converting even a small fraction of the general public into eco-drivers is slim. Fleet drivers are another matter, however: Since driving is their job, they can be trained and incentivized toward eco-driving. To that end, Ford recently imported several instructors from its German eco-driving training center to help train Ford fleet drivers. Curt Magleby, Ford's director of Governmental Affairs, explains:

We are talking with fleet owners first, because they have large numbers of vehicles and drivers that could realize significant benefit from such training. Ultimately, all drivers can benefit from practicing eco-driving, and one day it may be considered mandatory as part of all new drivers training.

New driver's training? Can someone tell him we don't do things like that over here. [Green Car Congress]