Take the MPG Challenge

Are you ready to take the Call 12 For Action MPG Challenge?

With gas prices over $4 a gallon, lots of people are considering buying a new car that gets better mileage. But before you do that, you might consider simply driving in way that will stretch that gallon of gas.

People like Dean Palmer are already doing that. The EPA says his 2004 Volkswagon Passat turbo diesel should get a combined 31 miles per gallon. But Dean regularly gets 42-44 miles per gallon. His highway record is 50 miles per gallon.

How does he do it? He drives the speed limit, watches his acceleration and his tire pressure and uses his cruise control. Unlike some extreme hypermilers, Dean makes sure everything he does is both safe and legal. The result is extra money in his pocket.

So how about you? Are you doing all you can do to stretch that tank of gas?

We’re looking for five people who want to be a part of the Call 12 For Action MPG Challenge. We’ll help train you and give you the motivation to improve the mileage in your own car. Sorry, there are no big prizes and we don’t buy the gas. But you’ll have the satisfaction of learning just what kind of mileage your car can achieve.

If you’re interested, send a brief e-mail to MPGChallenge@12news.com explaining why we should choose you.

And even if you don’t make it, you can still play the game on your own. No gold medal, just some extra cash in your wallet.