Would reducing the speed limit to 55mph on the highways reduce emissions?

Question

I've dropped my speed to 55 (90kph) and I've noticed a sizable savings on my feul bill.

Camp. I'd be in favour of bringing back the 55 limit for all the reasons just mentioned.

Answer 1

Edmunds.com seems to agree with you, but has a bit more to say on the matter, so check the link below. But I like this quote from the 2nd site, something I'd heard before, but wanted to verify for my answer.

"While each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed (or range of speeds), gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph."

We can all do a lot to improve our gas consumption. Your car will pollute less, and you save money!

Answer 2

Slightly. It would cut down a bit on the amount of gasoline used. Its one of the many small changes which--if implemented--woudl make a considerable difference when added together.

BTW--its also an example of how many--in fact, most--canges to reduce emissions or otherwise protect the environment can have additional benefits. In this case--saving lives. When the 55 mph limit was first enacted, it reslted in a significant drop in traffic deaths. As the cons have gradually raised speed limits back up in the last few years, the traffic daths have climbed as well.

Answer 3

Why 55? Why not 45? Wouldn't this save even MORE fuel? And if that works, let's lower the speed limit to 30mph. This would work if WE ALL CARED!!!

Then we could just eliminate the car and make people walk.

Sheesh! More global warming nuts pressing their religion on others. Somehow I doubt you practice what you preach be driving 55 yourself.

Answer 4

Yes it would. It would also save gas, which is why that was done in the 1970s during the Arab oil embargo. It also saved lives. Highway deaths plummeted when the 55 MPH speed law was passed. But when embargo ended and more and more people were ignoring the law and it was finally repealed.