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70 MPH Speed Limit Will Likely Reduce Fuel Efficiency, Researchers Say

Auto Expert Advises Removing Extra Weight From Car To Boost Fuel Efficiency

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Signs for the new 70 mph interstate speed limit in Wisconsin are going up this week, but some researchers say vehicle fuel efficiency will likely be going down as a result.

Consumer Reports says it does monthly tests of fuel economy on normal driving surfaces and not in controlled environments. Automotive specialist Mike Quincy said in one test of a four-cylinder Toyota Camry, there was about a five-mile drop per gallon when increasing speed from 65 to 75 mph.

“So, just because you have a green light to go a little faster, you’ll spend more for gasoline,” he said.

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Quincy said if people keep it to 70 mph, the drop in fuel efficiency might be a bit less. He suggests removing extra weight from the vehicle and keeping tires properly inflated to partly offset the efficiency decline prompted by the new speed limit.

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