Volvo Improve Mileage with Common Sense

We often feature advances in motoring technology here on Treehugger - electric, solar, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen and all sorts of things designed to improve mileage. However, cars still aren't as efficient as they should be. We've talked about the reasons why before, and it seems that Volvo must have listened. They've announced that their new C30 will have far better fuel efficiency, all thanks to a few common sense, low-tech design features.

The diesel C30 will be unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, and is claimed to achieve an impressive 52.26 mpg. In order to get this figure that high Volvo used low-friction transmission oil, tweaked the engine management software, added higher gearing in 3rd, 4th and 5th, fitted low rolling resistance tires and aerodynamically smoothed all parts of the body. In essence, they didn't do much at all. Every car manufacturer could, and should, be doing this to every single car they make. ::Auto Blog