Has anyone figured out the best driving techniques to maximize mileage (in town -- on the highway there isn't much to do). I've read all the tips on oil, tire pressure, etc., but I am wondering whether anyone has experimented with different driving habits to maximize mileage.

I've found that my Prius will rely on the electric motor much more after it has been driven for a while (30 minutes or more). Once in that range, I will accelerate fairly rapidly to whatever the street speed is (if 45 or less) and then let off the accelerator completely to get the engine to shut off, then lightly use the pedal to maintain speed. I can get a short burst of gasoline power and then drive on electrice alone for several miles.

Anyone else played around with stuff like this? I'm just wondering was has / has not worked.

I get pretty horrible MPG ratings when compared to the ones claimed by Toyota. I average between 38 - 42 MPG while Toyota claims 53 MPG on highways and around 60 for city.

However, after owning a Prius for over a month, I've learned the following:

• Turning A/C down or off completely helps (this applies to all cars so it's a no-brainer)
• Keep a constant speed is better than accelerating and stopping, cruise control helps
• Prius gets extremely horrible MPG when you drive short distances.