Auto Club Begins Weekend Gas Watch to Aid Travelers
LOS ANGELES--April 27, 2001--In an effort to help weekend travelers plan the cost of their motoring trips, the Automobile Club of Southern California launches its Weekend Gas Watch.The Weekend Gas Watch will be distributed every Friday and include updated average prices for regular, mid-grade and premium-grade self-serve gasoline from five popular destinations.
"The purpose is to help people get a handle on the costs of their trip before they leave home," said Jeffrey Spring, public relations supervisor of the Auto Club.
"Prices in Los Angeles and Orange County have historically been lower than in other parts of the state. Those lower prices tend to pull down the statewide average. But by looking at specific locations, we can give a more accurate snapshot of current prices."
Average prices as of 12:01 a.m. April 27 Area Regular Mid-Grade Premium Los Angeles-Long Beach $1.786 $1.901 $1.932 San Diego $1.905 $2.028 $2.062 Santa Barbara-Santa Maria-Lompoc $1.953 $2.079 $2.113 Las Vegas $1.771 $1.867 $1.935 Phoenix-Mesa, Ariz. $1.627 $1.697 $1.794
Properly maintaining your vehicle is a critical component in reducing gas usage, according to Steve Mazor, principal automotive engineer for the Auto Club. Under-inflated tires, for example, can cut fuel economy by up to 2% per pound of pressure below the recommended level. Worn spark plugs and dirty air filters also increase fuel consumption. The Auto Club also offers the following gas saving tips.
| -- | Knowing the correct starting procedure for your car. Racing an engine to warm it up wastes fuel. |
| -- | Maintaining steady speeds. A car uses extra fuel when it accelerates. |
| -- | Minimizing the need to brake by anticipating traffic conditions. Be alert for slow-downs and red lights. |
| -- | Using the air conditioner only when necessary. Air conditioning reduces fuel economy by about 5% |
The Automobile Club of Southern California, the largest affiliate of the AAA, has been serving members since 1900.