Tuesday, May 27, 2008 --- 12:55 p.m.

With gas now averaging more than $4 per gallon in Wisconsin, AAA Wisconsin reminds consumers of gas-saving tips and Web sites dedicated to fuel information.

Perhaps the best known Web site is AAA’s Daily Fuel Gauge Report (www.aaafuelgaugereport.com). The site – a natural extension of the reports AAA has issued in some form since the 1970s – averages prices paid at 100,000 gas stations across the country and posts national, state and local averages daily for each of the major grades of gasoline.

AAA Fuel Cost Calculator (www.aaafuelcostcalculator.com) helps users understand and budget for the amount of fuel they are likely to use on a long-distance trip. After entering the trip’s origin and destination, and the type of vehicle being driven,
the site calculates the miles driven, the amount of fuel that will be used and the cost.

AAA’s online trip planning tool, TripTik® Travel Planner found at www.AAA.com, includes location and fuel pricing information for more than 100,000 U.S. gas stations. Using the planner, travelers can note the locations of convenient fuel stops along their driving route.

AAA provides fuel-saving tips and advice to consumers through its “AAA Gas Watcher’s Guide.” Some tips from the guide include:

 Slow down. For most vehicles, fuel economy drops off significantly when traveling more than 60 miles per hour. As a rule of thumb, you can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas.
 Avoid quick starts and sudden stops. They waste fuel, are harder on vehicle components and increase the odds of a traffic crash.
 Lighten your vehicle by cleaning out the trunk, cargo areas and passenger compartments. A heavier vehicle uses more fuel.
 Stick to a routine maintenance schedule. Keeping tires inflated, moving components properly lubricated and ignition and emission systems operating properly will help ensure maximum fuel efficiency and extend the life of your vehicle.
 Consolidate trips and errands to cut down on driving time and miles traveled. When possible, combine them with your daily commute.
 Comparison shop by phone or online if possible before heading out on the road.
 If you own more than one vehicle, use the more energy-conserving vehicle as often as possible.
 If you are going somewhere new, get a map first from an online source such as AAA TripTik (www.AAA.com). Getting lost wastes gas as well as time.
 Keep your eyes open for low fuel prices but don’t waste gas driving to a distant filling station to save a few cents.
More detailed information for saving fuel and money can be found in the AAA Gas Watcher’s Guide, which is available at local AAA Wisconsin offices or online at www.aaanewsroom.net (follow links to “fuel related materials”).