Obama Assigns Task Force To Investigate Soaring Gas Prices
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Gas prices are $4 or more in many areas of the country, including some stations in Philadelphia. Prices in South Jersey are generally below the national average of $3.84, but paying $3.70 for a gallon of regular doesn't exactly feel like a bargain.
The Obama Administration says it will be on the lookout for fraud or manipulation in energy markets.
There are ways to get more miles out of each tankful.
You don't have to buy a new car or any special devices. Brian Rehn of the EPA says the key to improving gas mileage is
"Drive sensibly, drive with efficiency in mind," he says.
Studies over the years have shown conservative driving can improve gas efficiency by 20 percent. The biggest factor is speed. Mileage decreases rapidly over 60 miles per hour. Every 5 miles per hour over 60 you go is like paying 25 cents a gallon more for gas.
Accelerating is another other key factor. Accelerating takes 20 to 50 times more gas than cruising at a steady speed. Roger Clark of the GM energy center recommends setting your speed in traffic so you can coast.
"All vehicles get their most efficient fuel economy when you're coasting so look ahead and coast as much as possible."
It will also save you money to keep tires properly inflated, minimize idling to no more than a minute, keep the car turned up and travel light: Empty the trunk of anything you don't need.
Reported by Pat Loeb, KYW Newsradio
