Hypermiler Wayne Gerdes Drives 2011 Sonata Hybrid Across America

The new Sonata Hybrid has finished the journey from the edge of the Pacific Ocean to Jekyll on the Atlantic Coast of Georgia. The 2,269.3 mile (3,651 km) long trip took Wayne Gerdes over mountains, deserts and valleys, the Continental Divide and the Mississippi River, with only one fuel stop, proving the range and fuel efficiency of Hyundai's new hybrid sedan, which will hit dealers this month.

One thing is for sure, Wayne Gerdes knows how to get the most from a tank of fuel. In April of 2009, he traveled for 1,445 miles (2,325 km) in a Ford Fusion Hybrid on a single tank of gas, while in June last year he managed 1,065 miles (1,713 km) in a normally-aspirated 2011 Hyundai Sonata.

"As a fan of fuel-efficient vehicles, I enjoy the challenge of putting new technology to the test. This demonstration shows how the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid can deliver extremely impressive fuel economy and range for drivers who value fuel savings. This is the first time I've driven a car that 'does it right!' Driving on the interstate at the posted speed limit (or 65 mph, whichever is slower), the Sonata Hybrid will exceed or equal its competition while offering a much larger, roomier, and comfortable car," says Gerdes.

Mr. Gerdes, the man who coined the term "hypermiling", began his journey in San Diego on December 26, 2010 and celebrated New Year's Day in Georgia, using only 38 gallons (143 liters) of fuel to cross the American continent. This proves that you can get more from a tank of fuel than even the manufacturer thinks, as the Sonata Hybrid averaged 59.58 miles per gallon (3.94 l/100km), some 50% more than the 40 mpg (5.88 l/100km) highway the EPA has claimed.