Eco-driving
Since the early seventies, great effort has been put into improving the fuel economy of cars. However, the fuel economy of a car is also influenced very considerably by the behaviour and driving style of its driver. Improving driver behaviour through large-scale introduction of 'eco-driving' programmes, in-car feedback instruments, traffic management measures and measures to ensure respect for existing speed limits, is a way of improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. Eco-driving can greatly improve energy efficiency and reduce the CO2 emission of motor vehicles and contributes to road safety, while not infringing on the needs of people to be able to drive as and when they need to.
Top 10 eco-driving tips
- Drive off straight away rather than leaving the engine idling to warm up, modern engines do not require warming up.
- Don't drive at high speed with the windows open - use the air-conditioning system if you have one or the fresh air vents on the dashboard.
- Minimum emissions occur between 40-60 miles per hour and increase with higher speeds.
- Regular maintenance such as keeping the engine tuned will reduce emissions.
- Restarting the engine uses less energy than 10 seconds of idling, so switch off if in a long queue.
- Inflating tyres to the correct pressure will lengthen their life, make the car safer and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 5% and fuel use by 3-4%. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. They also wear more rapidly. Check the vehicle handbook for correct inflation pressure. Over inflated tyres have reduced grip and an increased risk of skidding.
- Don't carry unnecessary loads in the boot or on the roof as this will increase fuel consumption. Roof racks increase fuel consumption by up to 5%.
- Hard acceleration, sharp breaking and aggressive driving all use more fuel as well as being more dangerous.
- 40% of UK trips are less than 3 miles, and catalytic converters take at least 6 miles to become effective. Try to link together necessary car journeys rather than making many small trips.
- Planning your journey will reduce unnecessary mileage due to getting lost, stuck in traffic or road works.
How good an eco-driver are you? Take a short online course to find out.