Recently, a local television network covered a story about an attempt to competitively attack high fuel prices by using hyrdrogen fuel cells for your car’s engine.

The theory behind these hyrdogen fuel cells is that it turns combustion powered engines into hybrids. Supposedly, by entering into the burn chamber along with your gas, the hydrogen ignites faster, propels the engine when the distilled water interacts with a catalyst in the cells.

The developer, J.Plante, a former computer employee, claims that installing these cells can increase fuel efficiency by 25%. He recommends one cell per one cylinder, and for six cells the price to the consumer is $314.95. In warm weather, distilled water is used, and for cold weather, he recommends using windshield wiper antifreeze.

There are some serious skeptics concerning these devices, since they are not comparable with the technology of PEM Hydrogen Fuel Cells currently used in hybrids, and there are questions regarding generating enough electricity to convert the water into electricity and the damage it may cause to a car’s alternator.

Without empirical evidence that this actually works, it is hard to evaluate the claims. However, there are some less “experimental” actions you can take to save fuel, here are a few:

1. No brainer is to slow down, you can save as much as 25% by not putting the pedal to the metal.
2. Keep your car in good running condition. Tune-up to increase gas efficiency.
3. Don’t pull-out from a stop like you’ve just been given the flag at the Indy 500.
4. If you have to pull-up at a red or stop sign by hitting the breaks so hard that your car reacts like a bronco, then you were going too fast.
5. Know the maximum air level to keep your tires efficiently inflated.
6. Shop around online search engines for the best fuel prices in your local area. Check out: Gas Buddy, Yahoo! Search Shortcut, Motor Trend, Gas Price Watch, and others.
   
7. Apply gas coupons that you find on the opposite side of your grocery bill, you can get 3¢, 5¢, up to 14¢ off a gallon by using them. For you gamblers, some casinos offer players cards that can be applied for a reduction at local gas stations.
8. Warehouse stores generally carry gas cheaper, not a member? Don’t worry, gas stations located near these warehouse stores usually will offer the same price per gallon to remain competitive.
9. Car pool to work, this way you can split the cost of fuel and parking.
10. Use a GPS to plan out your shopping and business destinations to save time and money. Make lists so that you avoid those additional runs to the grocery or hardware store.

Have other suggestions? How about sharing???

*photo courtesy of KBJR Northland’s News Center.

Related Articles You'll Enjoy!

• Wednesdays are Senior Bargain Days
• Tip of the Week: Control Utility Costs This Winter Now!
• Warehouse Shopping Tips
• Weekend Sales for Weekend Warriors
• Appliance Factory Outlets–How Much Can You Save?
• Pain is a French Word for Bread
• Super Store, Super Food Coupons
• Saving Gas Part 2: Prevent The “Vapors” At The Pump
• ▪ Free Print Ads for Selling “Stuff”
• ▪ PlayStation 3: Best Bets on Where to Buy and Insider Survey Results

Tags: Saving Gas

Sign-Up for Daily E-Mail Gems from

(No Ratings Yet)  Loading ...