Quick answer
To lower fuel consumption (improve mpg), drive smoothly, avoid high speeds, lighten your load, maintain correct tire pressure, and keep the engine tuned.
Detailed answer
Improving fuel efficiency typically involves:
• Gentle acceleration: Smooth starts reduce engine load.
• Steady cruising: Going 60–65 mph often outperforms 75+ mph.
• Minimal weight: Extra cargo or roof racks add drag.
• Correct tire inflation: Underinflated tires raise rolling resistance.
• Timely tune-ups: Spark plugs, filters, and oil changes preserve engine efficiency.
• Avoid long idling: Turning off the engine if stopped for more than a minute saves gas.
In hybrids, using regenerative braking carefully recaptures energy. For normal cars, coasting before red lights also saves. Each small step can yield a noticeable bump in mpg, less frequent fill-ups, and a reduced carbon footprint.