Tutoring math, you might be asked just about anything to do with numbers.  Here’s a comparison the tutor thinks might interest even the most casual visitor….

My automobile has just matured past its warranty. Though there’s seemingly nothing wrong with it, the idea of replacing it enters my mind now and again. Of course, there are choices now that weren’t viable when I bought this one. Notably, one might buy a hybrid vehicle now. What are the advantages?

Well, I’ve done some very rough calculations by way of comparing the “gas” option with the “hybrid” option. The makers of the Chevy Volt made it easy for me. However, I used Wikipedia as a source. It tells of a “combined” mileage of 62 mpg (or about 100km per 3.8L, if your prefer). From info I’ve picked up around the ‘net, you might expect around 30 to 35 mpg (32.5mpg=52km per 3.8L) from a typical gas-only vehicle, new, that’s around the size of the Volt.

With all the models, options, and deals out there, it’s hard to compare the prices directly. I’d say, though, that on a given day you might pay 1/3 more for the Volt – which could amount to around $8 or $9 grand. Let’s go with $8000 and convert it to mileage. My wife tells me that, today, gas is around $1.40/L. If, on the new gas-powered car, you get 52km per 3.8L, that means 52km per 3.8x$1.40 or 52km per $5.32.  Let’s realize that simplifies very closely to 10km per dollar. Therefore, on the $8000 you save buying the gas-powered car, you can drive about 80 000km, assuming fuel costs are stable.

These are rough calculations based on simple assumptions.  However, they might well be realistic in many cases.  What these numbers might do is provide some interesting material for the mind to ruminate on during those quiet times sitting outside in the summer warmth….

Look for further exploration of this topic here soon:)

Jack of Oracle Tutoring by Jack and Diane, Campbell River, BC.