Eco driving: general tips
Avoid peak rush. More traffic means more stopping and starting, not to mention stress and headaches, and the big one – so much time is wasted. Unless you absolutely have to, plan carefully to avoid rush traffic by leaving earlier or later. (more…)
Eco driving: reduce cost and save the planet
When fuel is combusted it produces energy which drives your vehicle. One of the many bi-products is carbon dioxide, which is now linked to climate change. (more…)
Europe Fail Learners Without Eco Driving Skills
Learner drivers could fail their driving test, if they pose a threat to the planet, under proposals being drawn up by the European Commission.
Braking suddenly, revving the engine or wasting fuel by being too heavy on the accelerator pedal could prove costly. (more…)
Eco driving for fuel efficiency
Discover some simple tips on eco driving and see how adopting a few minor modifications to your driving style can significantly reduce fuel usage, which in turn reduces dangerous greenhouse gas emissions.
The further you drive, the more fuel you use. It might sound silly, but just think about it for a moment. Really well planned routes anticipating time of day, traffic, stops and checking radio or TV before you head off will save you buckets of time and fuel. Try and use local destinations and suppliers if you can or if it’s appropriate. Go local! Also consider the frequency you travel from place to place. Is it necessary to do a run 5 times a week or can it be just 3? Of course it always depends on what you do, but too often these fundamental plans are not thought through.
Use the right tool for the job. Many businesses have a huge variety of vehicles, from trucks to vans and even scooters. Trucks are built to carry heavy loads, scooters light loads (genius!). But think about it – so often we use the wrong tool for the job. If possible, try and use a smaller vehicle if it is suitable for the job, (like local, urban routes), and big cruisers or large vehicles when covering distance or carrying loads, respectively. So often we use big vehicles when the power and speed is really only needed for less than 1% of the time. Incorporating this big picture strategy will make a big difference to your fuel consumption.
Reduce the Cost of Motoring With Eco Driving Tips
The cost of motoring can have an impact on both our wallets and on the environment. The good news is that by using strategies to reduce our current vehicles’ impact on the environment, we can save money, too.
By adopting the principles of Eco Driving, you should be able to reduce fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and your likelihood of being involved in an accident. By adopting smooth and safe driving techniques, you can save on average 5-10% on your fuel bill.
The Golden Rules of Eco Driving
According to web site EcoDrive.org, you should:
- Change up a gear as soon as possible: Change up a gear when you hit 2,000 to 2,500 revs, to minimise internal friction in the engine
- Maintain a steady speed: Use the highest gear possible, driving with the lowest RPM
- Anticipate traffic flow: Look ahead to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. As well as a smoother driving or riding experience, it should lead to lower fuel consumption and even fewer accidents
- Decelerate smoothly: Take your foot off the accelerator when slowing down for a red light or a junction. Leave the car in gear and decelerate smoothly
- Check your tyre pressures frequently: Tyre pressures that are 25% too low increase rolling resistance by 10% and fuel consumption by 2%. And, of course, correctly inflated tyres have a longer life and provide a more comfortable ride and optimum roadholding.
Some More Ways to Save Fuel
Drive slower because at high speeds, air resistance and friction in the engine increase. Travelling at 50mph uses 15% less fuel than 70mph, and any speed over 45mph sees wind resistance and engine friction increase, leading to increased fuel consumption.
Take a look in your boot, back seat and foot wells. Are you carrying unnecessary weight such as unneeded tools (you don’t need your full toolkit in a heavy case – indeed you may decide to leave any on-the-move maintenance to your breakdown provider), clutter and luggage that has taken up residence in your car. All of these add to the weight of your vehicle and to the fuel consumption.
While you’re considering unnecessary weight, think about unnecessary drag, too. Roof racks, bike carriers and roof boxes all significantly affect your car’s dynamics, so increasing fuel consumption. Remove them if they’re not in use.
Turn off your engine if you’re stationary – in a serious traffic jam, while waiting for a level crossing or just sitting in a car park. There’s little point in using fuel when you’re travelling nowhere.
If you plan ahead, you can avoid congestion and road works. And try to keep your car for longer journeys, because a cold engine uses almost twice as much fuel as a warm one, while catalytic converters only become effective after five miles of driving.
A few simple steps such as these and a little driving skills refinement can help the planet and your pocket. Why not start applying them now?
Courtesy: Ezine Articles
