This Day in History: 1935-07-08
The American Automobile Association reported the results of fuel efficiency at various speeds conducted at the Indianapolis Speedway. Thirteen makes of cars were tested over twenty-one days in over 600,000 laps. The results showed that American cars showed the greatest efficiency when run at thirty miles per hour or less. At 10 mph cars ran 8.7 miles per gallon; at 20 mph they covered 18.9 mpg, and 18 mpg at 30 mph. At 50, car mileage was reduced to 12.6; and at 80 mph it dropped to only 8.6 miles per gallon with greatly increased oil consumption as well. This survey was publicized as part of the AAA8’s campaign to get motorists to slow down. (Bristow)