Researchers with too much time on their hands
Two engineers at the University of Vermont must have had some free time on their hands. They determined that an SUV with a Christmas tree strapped on top has 26 percent more aerodynamic drag than a SUV without a tree.
But, they didn’t stop there. Based on the energy density of gasoline, engine efficiency, and the number of trees sold annually; they came to the conclusion that trees account for 53,000 gallons of gasoline used. Taking the average cost of a gallon of gas, taking Christmas trees home from the lot cost Americans around $100,000 a year.
Source: ABC13.com - What do researchers with too much time on their hands study?