A car travels 300 miles using 15 gallons of fuel. If the cars fuel efficiency improves by 20%, how many miles can it travel on 18 gallons of fuel?

Sun, 03 May 2026 22:18:53 +0000

**How Tighter Fuel Efficiency Translates to Longer Distance — A Look at Fuel Economy and Real-World Performance** Ever wondered how a modest jump in fuel efficiency changes everyday travel? Take the common benchmark: a car drives 300 miles on 15 gallons of fuel. That averages 20 miles per gallon — a familiar benchmark for drivers tracking fuel costs and efficiency. Now imagine what higher efficiency means: a 20% improvement. Suddenly, that same car on 18 gallons of fuel can reach even more miles. This shift isn’t just a technical tweak—it reflects broader trends in automotive innovation, economic sensitivity, and growing consumer awareness around fuel expenses. With rising fuel prices, environmental concerns, and the push for sustainable mobility, fuel efficiency improvements have gained real traction in American conversations. Manufacturers are increasingly prioritizing better miles per gallon through advanced engine technology, lightweight materials, and smarter aerodynamics. This not only benefits drivers saving money but also supports broader goals around energy independence and lower emissions. For users, understanding how these changes translate numerically builds confidence in planning longer trips and managing fuel budgets effectively. Now, let’s break down a key calculation that defines this shift: What distance can a car travel on 18 gallons if fuel efficiency improves by 20%, starting from a baseline of 300 miles on 15 gallons?