House Republican Press Release

July 11, 2008

Press Office: 860-240-8700

Rep. Frey Offers Gasoline Saving Tips

State Representative John Frey (R-Ridgefield) today noted that while the General Assembly recently approved measures to provide some relief at the pumps, there are additional ways motorists can save on gasoline during the summer months. On June 11, the Legislature passed legislation to suspend the scheduled increase in the gross receipts tax on gasoline and allow service stations to offer cash discounts.

“The price of gasoline is having a terrible impact on families throughout the state,” said Rep. Frey. “People are looking for any way they can to save money.”

The following tips, courtesy of the state Department of Consumer Protection (DCP), can help get the most mileage from each tank of gasoline:

• Inflating tires to optimal pounds per square inch -- or PSI -- as instructed by the car manufacturer is can help cars achieve maximum fuel efficiency. Recommended inflation pressure is printed in the owner's manual, on a label frequently found in the glove box, or near the door latch on the driver's side. By law, all licensed retail gasoline dealers in Connecticut must provide to the public at no cost, an air compressor for the purpose of tire inflation during their operating hours.  In addition, they must also conspicuously post a notice telling the public that the free air compressor is available for their use.

• Plan and combine driving routes so that you can travel at constant speeds and save miles. On long journeys, try to avoid rush hours; travel when traffic is light. Cruise control may be a fuel saver if used for a prolonged period of time. Overall, drive more slowly; the faster you go, the more gasoline the car uses. Before a long trip, find out if there are any road construction projects on your planned route and avoid them.  Stops and starts waste both valuable vacation time and gasoline.

• An out-of-tune car uses up to 8% more fuel.  Service your car’s engine according to its maintenance schedule and before any long journey.  Avoid extra weight; take only what you need and if possible, keep luggage inside the vehicle to prevent wind resistance. 

• When looking to purchase or lease a new car consider a hybrid, or at least purchase the most fuel efficient vehicle possible.  For information on fuel efficient vehicles, visit: www.fueleconomy.gov

            Additional fuel efficient driving tips can be obtained at www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/choosing.shtml. Information on tax incentives for hybrids is available at www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/taxcenter.shtml.