To further illustrate how much gas prices have gone up and its subsequent effect on motorists and the automotive industry, it just so happens that the Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year for 2008 is “hypermiling”.

The word came about in 2004 and it was coined by Wayne Gerdes. Hypermiling is the act of making adjustments to one’s car or one’s driving methods, adjustments geared towards maximizing fuel-efficiency and fuel economy. This entails pushing gas tanks to the limit to achieve ‘hypermileage’ that exceeds EPA ratings for miles per gallon.

Observing speed limits, steering clear of hills and avoiding congested traffic, removing unneeded cargo for lesser weight—these are just some of the methods employed by hypermilers all over the world.

When you look at hypermiling closely, it’s really not just about increasing the mpg figures on your car. Many people view it as an unwritten rule of thumb that can advocate the economy and the environment, as well as help get rid of fuel dependence. More and more people are starting to get into hypermiling as a means to get through the current economic crunch.

Source: Oxford University Press Blog