a new (& slower) dawn for a fast driver

Yay! I finally was able to bite the bullet & spring for wireless internet access at home. Even less commuting to find internet access at school, libraries & coffee shops. Yippeee! Now I just need to work on my habits while behind the wheel. I’m going to try what the Europeans call “soft driving.” It will be a change from my rather assertive driving style (ahem...) but I’m hoping that it will make me feel much better about the driving that I do have to do while also being more fuel efficient. What is soft driving? Wow! It’s really hard to find out online. I only found one article that actually details the approach. Hmmm…..

• Use the highest gear
• Drive smoothly, keep a consistent speed
• Don’t idle (if stopped longer than 30 seconds)
• Keep to the speed limit
• Reduce drag by keeping windows closed & eliminating unnecessary racks, etc.
  
• Remove clutter from the trunk & other extra weight
  
• Keep tires properly inflated
• Keep car well-tuned
• Reduce car use, plan to do a number of errands in one trip, car pool
• Use biodiesel (no can do for me as my car is of the unleaded petrol persuasion but perhaps you can try it)
• Invest in an electric or hybrid car (not so sure this is so very efficacious if you are ditching one car to get a new one but if you're already carless & in the market.....)
  
• http://www.gocarbonfree.com/global_warming/go_green/car_emission_tips.html