Did the 55 mph speed limit save gas? Bet!

While today’s freeway speed limits tend to be at least 65 mph, many people may wonder what the 55 mph limit is all about and whether limiting driving speed to 55 mph really helps save gas.

In 1974, President Nixon signed a federal law requiring the speed limit on all highways to be 55 mph. Previously, speed limits were decided on a state-by-state basis. This decision was due in part to the energy crisis at the time and the belief that 55 mph was the optimal speed for fuel efficiency.

This move generated a lot of debate and many people simply refused to follow the rules. Sammy Hagar’s song “I Can’t Drive 55” was in response to the law. Many states had only small fines associated with breaking this law, which did not effectively discourage people from breaking it.

In 1987 and 1988 new laws were enacted allowing states to change the speed limit.

But the question remains, particularly with today’s high gas prices: Did the 55 mph speed limit save gas?

The answer to this question tends to vary.

Studies reported by conservative think tank The Heritage Foundation put gas savings at 1%.

However, a group of hypermilers at Drive55.org report significant gas savings when they drive their car at 55 mph. In fact, drivers are beating the EPA ratings for their cars by more than 20 miles per gallon!

Of course, despite potential fuel savings, few people are willing to drive 55 mph, especially when the speed limit is much higher. We’ve gotten used to getting to places as quickly as possible. In fact, slowing down to 55 mph may only cost you an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on how far you drive.

The 55 mph speed limit increased fuel economy, but most people seem to feel that their time is worth more than the amount of savings.