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Gas Mileage, Reduce Oil Consumption, Speed

In the early ’70s, gas prices skyrocketed from $.33 to $.60 per gallon and higher. Reports in Time Magazine (and elsewhere) indicated  that the world supply of oil was depleted and we’d have to take drastic steps to “survive”. Consumers switched to smaller and more energy efficient cars. We also reduced consumption of oil via a mandated reduction of the highway speed limits from 70 mpg to 55mph. When speeds were set at 70 mpg, it was not unheard of to drive 80+ mpg. At 55 mpg, people might stretch it to 70. But, the point (or theory) is that 55  mpg is the most efficient driving speed.

Since then, the speed limit is back to 70 mpg or higher in some western states. With drastically higher gas prices, the question is should we reduce speed limits to reduce gas consumption??  And, is 55  mpg the ideal speed or is it 60, 65 or other?  What are your thoughts? Were you driving in the 1970s. Are you willing to go slower to consume less gas and  reduce the demand and prices?  Love to hear your thoughts? Gas is currently $4.11 in Maine. What is it in your community?

Contact me at pgeiger@farmersalmanac.com.