As gas prices surge following the U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, drivers like Dan Kroushl, 61, and Bradlee Fons, 74, are using hypermiling techniques to maximize fuel efficiency. Hypermilers drive smoothly, avoid hard stops and starts, and maintain speeds between 45 and 65 mph to reduce drag. Some employ extreme measures like skipping air conditioning or removing interior door panels to cut weight. Fons, who founded Drive Smart Wisconsin, claims drivers can save 30 percent or more on fuel costs. His 2017 Toyota Prius, rated at 52 mpg by the EPA, achieves 83.2 mpg through these methods.

Gas prices have risen nearly 40 percent since the conflict froze Persian Gulf energy flows. As of Sunday, regular gas averages $4.14 per gallon nationally, the highest Labor Day weekend price on record, per AAA. Diesel also hit a record high. Fons emphasizes that drivers are not helpless: "You're in total control." Simple strategies include combining errands to avoid cold starts, keeping up with maintenance, and anticipating slowdowns to minimize braking.

Hybrid vehicles are popular among hypermilers. Bob Winger, 71, of Williamsburg, Va., belongs to a group that set world records for fuel efficiency, including lowest consumption in a non-hybrid across all 48 contiguous states. Bruce Gregersen, 79, of St. Cloud, Minn., notes the techniques require concentration but become automatic. Hypermilers say their approach is both a lifestyle and a way to cut emissions, offering practical relief for everyday drivers facing pump pain.