Fuel Efficiency Matters More in Cooler Weather. Here’s How to Maximize It.

As temperatures drop, your vehicle's fuel efficiency often does too. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), cold weather can lower gas mileage by up to 20% for short trips, since engines take longer to reach optimal operating temperatures. But with a few simple adjustments, you can keep your vehicle running efficiently, save money, and reduce carbon emissions at the same time.

1. Lighten the load.
   Excess weight means your engine works harder. Removing unnecessary heavy items from your trunk or bed can improve mileage, especially for smaller vehicles.
2. Keep your tires properly inflated.
   For every one-psi drop in tire pressure, gas mileage can decrease by about 0.2%. Cold air causes tire pressure to drop, so check regularly.
3. Use cruise control when possible-but not always.
   AAA noted a study showing that using cruise control could save as much as 14% on gas, but it's best avoided when driving on hilly or icy roads.
4. Limit idling.
   Modern engines warm up faster when driving, not idling. Reducing idle time saves fuel and lowers emissions.
5. Stay on top of maintenance.
   Clean air filters, fresh oil, and properly functioning spark plugs can improve efficiency by up to 4%, according to the DOE.

At East Penn Manufacturing, we take these same principles to scale. One of our sustainability initiatives, called "Stairway to Seven," focuses on improving our truck fleet's fuel efficiency to seven miles per gallon by the end of 2025. Thanks in part to our drivers embracing new habits, we recently recorded an average of 6.82 miles per gallon (MPG) compared to 6.1 MPG when starting the initiative in 2021. This equates to a reduction of about 21,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO₂e), marking a win for both performance and the planet.

♻ Learn more about how we can all drive toward a cleaner future at Power2Recycle.com.