Fuel Cost Calculator
Calculate gas expenses for your road trip or daily commute. Plan your travel budget accurately.
Average Fuel Efficiency by Vehicle Type
30-40
Economy Car (MPG)
25-35
Sedan (MPG)
20-30
SUV (MPG)
15-25
Truck (MPG)
Quick Answer
To calculate fuel cost: Divide your trip distance by your vehicle's MPG to get gallons needed, then multiply by the fuel price. For example, a 100-mile trip at 25 MPG with gas at $3.50/gallon costs $14.00 (100 ÷ 25 = 4 gallons × $3.50).
Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian
15+ years experience
PhD from Yale University. Published mathematical historian ensuring precision in all calculations.
Education
PhD in Mathematical History - Yale University
Table of Contents
How to Calculate Fuel Cost
The fuel cost formula is straightforward:
Fuel Cost = (Distance ÷ Fuel Efficiency) × Fuel Price
Example Calculation:
- Trip distance: 300 miles
- Vehicle MPG: 30 miles per gallon
- Gas price: $3.50 per gallon
- Calculation: (300 ÷ 30) × $3.50 = 10 × $3.50 = $35.00
Tips to Improve Fuel Efficiency
- Maintain tire pressure: Under-inflated tires reduce MPG by up to 3%
- Drive steadily: Aggressive acceleration and braking waste fuel
- Use cruise control: Maintains constant speed on highways
- Reduce weight: Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle
- Avoid idling: Turn off the engine if stopped for more than a minute
- Regular maintenance: Clean air filters and fresh oil improve efficiency
- Plan routes: Avoid traffic and combine trips when possible
- Close windows at high speed: Open windows create drag on highways
Road Trip Planning Tips
- Check gas prices along route: Use apps to find cheapest stations
- Fill up before rural areas: Gas stations may be sparse
- Consider toll roads: Factor in toll costs alongside fuel costs
- Plan rest stops: Combine bathroom breaks with refueling
- Add 10-15% buffer: Account for detours and unexpected stops
- Check your vehicle: Pre-trip inspection prevents breakdowns
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate fuel cost for a trip?
Divide your trip distance by your vehicle's fuel efficiency (MPG) to get gallons needed. Then multiply by the fuel price per gallon. Formula: Cost = (Distance ÷ MPG) × Fuel Price.
What is a good MPG for a car?
A good MPG varies by vehicle type. Economy cars typically get 30-40 MPG, SUVs get 20-30 MPG, and trucks get 15-25 MPG. Hybrid vehicles can achieve 40-60 MPG or more.
How can I improve my fuel efficiency?
Maintain proper tire pressure, drive at steady speeds, avoid aggressive acceleration, remove excess weight, use cruise control on highways, and keep up with vehicle maintenance.
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Dr. Snezana Lawrence
Mathematical Historian | PhD from Yale
Dr. Lawrence is a published mathematical historian with a PhD from Yale University. She ensures mathematical precision and accuracy in all our calculations, conversions, and academic score calculators. Her expertise spans computational mathematics and educational assessment.
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