How is mpg calculated by a car

It is also possible for the estimated MPG to be incorrect. Occasionally manufacturers are even found to be violating laws by misrepresenting a model's MPG or emissions readings. There are a few other steps you can take to minimize your use of fuel and therefore maximize your MPG, according to Sandicliffe :. New Cars. Buyer's Guide. Type keyword s to search.

Today's Top Stories. What Is MPG? City MPG: the score a car will get on average in city conditions, with stopping and starting at lower speeds. How Is Fuel Economy Calculated? The New European Driving Cycle test yields four types of results. Urban fuel economy, or fuel economy for simulated city driving.

Extra-urban fuel economy, or a simulation of highway fuel economy. A combined figure that balances urban and extra-urban fuel economy. There are a few other steps you can take to minimize your use of fuel and therefore maximize your MPG, according to Sandicliffe : Plan your journey in advance to avoid extraneous miles. Service your vehicle on a regular basis as recommended by the manufacturer. Use the recommended fuel for your vehicle. Use cruise control to maintain a steady speed on the highway.

Use the correct gears to avoid stressing your engine. This results in false numbers or erratic driving may also skew the results. Some vehicles may also have an instantaneous mpg readout, which is helpful in bettering driving habits to increase mpg. So how do you know what you are really getting? Do it the old school mathematical way.

Calculators are allowed this time and the only person marking your answer will be you! It can also be fun adjusting your driving style to try and increase MPG as much as possible. The most precise way of doing it is to keep your own record. You do this by first filling the fuel tank to the brim. Every time you fill up after that, get the tank as full as possible. Subtract the starting mileage from the final figure.

This gives you miles per gallon. You can see how it compares to rivals by comparing their official MPG figures. The car is driven at speeds of between 43mph and 75mph for specific periods of time. The amount of fuel used is then calculated.

This is supposed to mimic city or town driving. The car drives at between nine and 20mph for a strictly defined time before the amount of fuel used is worked out.