Toyota announced the winners for wave two of the Toyota Prius Plug-in MPG Challenge, with Pamela Lippe of Earth Day New York and Karen Lee of EcoKaren sharing the top spot averaging 999 MPG.
While the Toyota Prius Plug-In is one of the most fuel efficient and carbon-friendly vehicles on the road with a 50 MPG / 95 MPGe rating from the EPA, returning a triple 9 mpg reading is not something that you would expect from normal driving by the average driver. Throw in a 646 total mile distance, and that performance is even more impressive.
Rounding out third place with an average of 251 MPG was Leigh Garofalow, founder of Green-4-U.com.
The winning participants achieved high mileage averages by limiting their consumption of fuel during the Prius Plug-in MPG Challenge, maximizing the use of the Electric Vehicle driving modes and leveraging eco-conscious driving techniques.
The goal for the Challenge is to encourage participants to achieve high mileage numbers by taking advantage of the Prius Plug-in’s EV Driving Mode, as well as practicing daily fuel and energy-conserving driving techniques.
To be eligible to win, participants must drive a minimum of 500 miles total and 75 miles each week. The highest overall MPG according to the Prius’ trip computer per 30-day challenge wins a $2,500 contribution, with second-place finisher earning $1,000 and the third-place finisher winning $500. All participating companies will also receive a $200 gas card.
Pamela Lippe and Karen Lee will each be awarded a $2,500 contribution to donate to non-profit organizations of their choice. Pamela’s winning contribution will benefit Earth Day New York, a nonprofit organization promoting environmental awareness and solutions through partnerships with schools, community organizations, businesses and government, and Karen’s benefiting Autism Speaks of Westchester, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization.
Leigh Garofalow will receive $500 for the Arc of Essex County, a non-profit serving those with developmental disabilities and their families.
Toyota Prius Plug-in MPG Challenge continues with wave three participants set to kick off the competition.