Driving on empty is a daring move that some people make, but it’s not something experts recommend. However, for those who are curious about how far different vehicles can go on an empty tank, a recent MarketWatch report provides some interesting insights. While it’s important to note that the vehicles on the list may not translate directly to U.S. models, they can still give us a rough idea of how comparable vehicles might perform.
Topping the list is the Toyota RAV4 Icon FWD, which can travel more than 73 miles after the fuel light comes on. This impressive mileage is more than enough to get to the next gas station, and it may even tempt some owners into driving for days with the fuel light illuminated. Following closely behind is the Ford F-150 XLT SuperCrew 4WD, which can go for about 72 miles on empty. These figures show that these vehicles are quite efficient when it comes to making the most out of the remaining fuel.
It’s worth mentioning that the calculations used to determine these distances were not based on real-world testing but rather on the fuel tank capacity and fuel economy ratings of each vehicle. The organization divided each car’s fuel tank capacity by ten to come up with a 10 percent fuel capacity number and then used the fuel economy ratings to estimate how far they could travel. While this method provides a general idea, it’s important to remember that several factors can affect these estimates.
Driving style, for example, plays a significant role in fuel efficiency. Aggressive driving habits like rapid acceleration and hard braking can quickly deplete fuel levels. On the other hand, adopting a smoother driving style with gradual acceleration and deceleration can help conserve fuel. Additionally, external factors such as weather conditions and the weight of the vehicle can impact fuel consumption. Driving in heavy rain or snow requires more energy, while carrying a heavier load can increase fuel consumption as well.
Despite the allure of pushing the limits on an empty tank, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and reliability. Running out of fuel in the middle of nowhere can lead to dangerous situations, especially at night or in unfamiliar areas. It’s always a good idea to have a buffer and fill up the tank when it reaches the halfway mark.
Furthermore, consistently driving with low fuel levels can take a toll on your vehicle’s fuel system. The fuel pump relies on gasoline to keep it lubricated and cooled. Driving with minimal fuel can cause the pump to overheat, leading to premature wear and potential failure. A failing fuel pump can result in an expensive repair bill and leave you stranded on the side of the road.
In conclusion, while it’s interesting to know how far different vehicles can go on an empty tank, it’s not advisable to regularly push the limits. The figures provided in the MarketWatch report give us an idea of the efficiency of these vehicles, but real-world conditions and individual driving habits can influence these numbers. It’s essential to prioritize safety by maintaining a reasonable fuel level and addressing any maintenance or repair issues promptly. So, next time you see that low fuel light, it’s best to head to the nearest gas station rather than testing the limits of your vehicle’s fuel economy.