The Toyota Prius has reached a new level of efficiency thanks to Wayne Gerdes, who earned the Guinness World Record for the lowest fuel consumption while driving across the United States from the West Coast to the East Coast. This summer, Gerdes drove from Los Angeles City Hall to New York City Hall in a Prius LE, achieving remarkable fuel economy. The average combined fuel consumption over the entire trip was 93.158 miles per gallon (MPG) — 2.52 liters per 100 kilometers. This performance allowed him to break the previous record that had stood since the mid-1970s.
The Prius was introduced nearly two decades ago as the first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. It ushered in a new generation of cars that combine an electric motor with a highly efficient internal combustion engine to significantly enhance fuel efficiency. And it has lived up to its promise.
Gerdes' journey covering 3,211.7 miles (5,168.73 kilometers) across the United States took place over varied terrains and unpredictable weather conditions. He drove the Prius up to altitudes of 7,000 feet (2,133 meters) and traversed harsh areas like the Mojave Desert, where temperatures soared above 40 degrees. He contended with strong winds blowing in from the Gulf of Mexico. Such factors illustrate how the vehicle can achieve great efficiency despite challenging conditions.
The latest-generation Toyota Prius features Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid system and a 2.0-liter engine with a power output of 194 hp. The fuel economy for this vehicle is rated at 57 miles per gallon (4.12 l/100 km), according to EPA estimates.
This world record was set by a driver who employs hypermiling techniques that optimized the Prius's performance in specific weather and road conditions. The results are not typical. He also utilized some basic fuel-saving tips that any driver can practice.
Gerdes offers simple advice for drivers looking to improve their fuel economy. He recommends starting from a stop slowly and maintaining a steady pressure on the accelerator. He also suggests that when approaching a stop, drivers should ease off the accelerator in advance and use the car's inertia to coast smoothly to a stop, which can greatly aid in fuel saving.
Source: toyota
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