Lamarque Ford - Ronnie Logues

800-NEW-FORD

  • New Inventory
  • Used Inventory
  • Service and Parts
  • Specials
  • Contact Us

Follow Us!

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • YouTube
Powered by Velocity

Engine Fuel Economy Improvements | Lamarque Ford | New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner

May 5, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

Ten years ago, the top selling trucks in the U.S. had an average combined EPA fuel economy of only 14 mpg. Today, that number is closer to 20. What has happened? Have we sacrificed performance for fuel efficiency? Not at all. Although car manufacturers have shrunk the engines significantly, new technologies allow for better performance AND better gas mileage. Let’s take a look at some of the improvements in truck engines.

2015 Ecoboost engine

Fuel efficiency depends on factors other than the engine, like aerodynamics, weight and rolling resistance. However, it is increasingly harder for pick-up trucks to improve in other aspects of fuel efficiency while at the same time adding new technological improvements. Remember, the job a truck is hired to do is not to consume as little fuel as possible, but to tow, carry and drag.

Turbochargers
This technology has been around for a while and has been used in high performance cars for decades. Manufacturers started implementing turbochargers in trucks as it allows for a smaller engine without losing torque. Ford’s Ecoboost engines are use turbocharging to compensate for their small size (3.5 V6 to power a 6000 lb vehicle).

Variable Displacement
Variable displacement is also known as cylinder deactivation. The system works by allowing some of the cylinders to stop moving while the throttle is closed or running at steady speeds, like highway speeds, without affecting its power. Before its modern implementation, variable displacement technology failed to reach mass market because of unsolved engineering challenges dating back to the early 80s. Today, this technology is widely used by Honda, GM and Mercedes-Benz.

Direct Fuel Injection
Direct Fuel injection allows for a better control of the amount of fuel that goes into the cylinders as it is delivered directly, thus reducing waste. Ecoboost engines by Ford rely heavily on this technology coupled with turbocharging.

Lighter Materials
New manufacturing techniques have made materials such as aluminum a viable option for many parts of a vehicle, engines included. This reduces the weight of engines by about half, compared to iron block engines. However, there were some problems with early aluminum engines as they couldn’t handle the high temperatures. That’s all in the past as most of today’s standard small engines are aluminum.

–

Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.

 

Filed Under: Lamarque Ford Tagged With: ecoboost, ford ecoboost, Ford F150, fuel economy, gas mileage, Kenner Ford, Lamarque Ford, MPG, new orleans ford

How To Drive More Efficiently | Lamarque Ford | Metairie, Kenner, New Orleans

April 30, 2014 By Matthew Hritz Leave a Comment

While the primary focus of today’s automobile industry is their fuel consumption and efficiency, there are factors that go beyond the car itself that can reduce fuel consumption. Yes, having a new car with high mpg rating is a great way to reduce green house gases and save you money on the long run, but there are several steps drivers can take that can have a similar or greater impact when done properly. Let’s take a look at the ways in which modifying your driving habits can help both your pocket and the environment.

Close up of Ford fuel gauge

Reduce Your Speed
Most vehicles operate at their maximum efficiency peak at around 50 mph. This means the faster you drive over such speed, the worse your mpg average will get. Since all engines vary slightly, be sure to consult your owner’s manual for the optimal fuel saving speed.

Drive Carefully
Sudden acceleration and breaking can negatively affect your gas mileage. Remember to accelerate slowly and smoothly after a full stop.  Most rapid increases on speed are unnecessary and will cost you.

Avoid Excess Weight
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, weight affects mainly small vehicles and excess of as little as 100 lb can have a 2% decrease in your mpgs. Avoid hoarding in your vehicle as it will take only a few items to bring your fuel efficiency down.

The Right Tires
Tires are a significant factor in fuel economy, as they provide support and interact with your vehicle at all times. Everything from the type of tire, alignment and inflation are directly related to your fuel tank, as it can affect up to 30% of your fuel efficiency. Consult your owner’s manual to find the adequate tire pressure and alignment intervals.

The Effect Of Maintenance
Lastly, keeping your car in good shape will not only better your fuel economy, but it will keep your car running longer. Be sure to keep a maintenance log and timely perform oil, gasoline and air filter changes, along with tune-ups and spark-plug cleaning as your vehicles requires it.

Stay tuned for other tips on how to make the most out of your new or used car.

–

Lamarque Ford is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in New Orleans, LA. Located in Kenner, LA, Lamarque Ford is committed to providing you the best customer service and vehicle service for the life of your vehicle. Whether you’re on the market to purchase, finance, or service a new or used Ford vehicle, you’ve come to the right place.

 

 

 

Filed Under: Lamarque Ford Tagged With: car technology, ford new orleans, fuel economy, fuel efficiency, fuel saving, gas mileage, Kenner Ford, Lamarque Ford, new car, used car

Archives

  • September 2019 (1)
  • August 2019 (1)
  • May 2019 (1)
  • February 2019 (1)
  • January 2019 (2)
  • December 2018 (3)
  • October 2018 (3)
  • September 2018 (1)
  • August 2018 (2)
  • July 2018 (2)
  • June 2018 (2)
  • May 2018 (2)
  • April 2018 (3)
  • March 2018 (2)
  • February 2018 (2)
  • January 2018 (3)
  • November 2017 (2)
  • September 2017 (1)
  • August 2017 (2)
  • June 2017 (2)
  • May 2017 (2)
  • April 2017 (2)
  • March 2017 (2)
  • June 2016 (1)
  • March 2016 (1)
  • February 2016 (4)
  • January 2016 (8)
  • December 2015 (9)
  • November 2015 (9)
  • October 2015 (7)
  • September 2015 (8)
  • August 2015 (10)
  • July 2015 (9)
  • June 2015 (4)
  • May 2015 (4)
  • April 2015 (4)
  • March 2015 (2)
  • February 2015 (10)
  • January 2015 (10)
  • December 2014 (10)
  • November 2014 (10)
  • October 2014 (10)
  • September 2014 (10)
  • August 2014 (10)
  • July 2014 (10)
  • June 2014 (10)
  • May 2014 (10)
  • April 2014 (10)
  • March 2014 (10)
  • February 2014 (10)
  • January 2014 (10)
  • December 2013 (10)
  • November 2013 (10)
  • October 2013 (8)
  • September 2013 (2)

Recent Posts

  • Tailgating Tips from Lamarque Ford September 20, 2019
  • The New Ford Ranger Is Back! August 30, 2019
  • Summer Road Trip Tips From Lamarque Ford May 17, 2019
  • Mardi Gras Tips from Ronnie Lamarque February 28, 2019
  • The New F-150: It’s Electric! January 31, 2019