There is absolutely no doubt that hypermiling has received a lot of negative press, and people often question whether hypermiling is actually legal. The truth is, hypermiling is an expansive activity with many different techniques hypermilers use to save on gas. While the vast majority of standard hypermiling practices are legal, and many are no more than plain common sense, some hypermiling techniques are quite dangerous and possibly illegal as well.
Examples of questionable or risky hypermiling techniques:
- Drafting - drafting is a very common hypermiling technique, and in some cases it's perfectly OK to do, however often hypermilers may take it too far. Drafting behind a semi-truck is an excellent way of decreasing your MPG, however, following too close behind a semi can be very risky. Many hypermilers take this even further by turning off their engine while drafting behind a semi truck. This is a very dangerous practice, and likely illegal in most, if not all states.
- Driving Slow on the Highway - while you may not think this is an illegal hypermiling practice, driving too slow on the highway can be dangerous for everyone on the road, and in most cases is illegal. Many highways and interstates have minimum speeds posted and driving below that minimum can get you a ticket, not to mention be a potentially life threatening situation.
- Overinflating Tires - by overinflating your tires, you'll likely see some level of increased gas mileage, although it probably won't be much. The downside to tire overinflation is the extreme risks involved - mainly the risk of a blowout or a rollover. Both of these can be potentially life threatening situations for both the driver, as well as all other cars on the road.
- Shutting Off Your Engine While It's Still Running - This can be one of the most deadly hypermiling techniques. Shutting off your engine while drafting or coasting down a hill, for example, can be a way of increasing your car's mpg. The risks that follow this practice, however, can be extremely dangerous. In most cases, when a driver's engine is turned off, they are unable to control their steering wheel or brakes, seriously decreasing reaction time on the road.
- Running Red Lights and Stop Signs - Obviously this is a technique used in light traffic, however the danger is still obvious. Continuously stopping for stop signs and stop lights can be a really gas mileage killer, but drivers disregarding signs and lights can lead to serious consequences and the obvious risk of getting ticketed as well.
Hypermiling can absolutely be a great way of increasing fuel economy for your car, and steering clear of dangerous hypermilling techniques will keep you out of trouble with the law and can potentially save you serious personal damage, or damage to your car.