Eco Driving is about practising safe, earth friendly driving. Ok so we all know CO2 emissions from our vehicles are too high until they make an exhaustless car (which I hear they're working on by the way) but for now we must live in the real world where sometimes walking or bussing or cycling just isn't an option.Two really good websites I found recently gave some brilliant tips on how to reduce fuel consumption and increase energy efficiency in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Below is a culmination of the Ecodrive.org and EcodrivingUSA's tips:
• Plan your trips - map out the shortest distance to get to your destination
• Avoid idling - a car warms up quicker when moving
• Avoid quick starts - gentle accelerating will save money
• Read the owners manual as it may have a fuel efficiency section specific to the vehicle
• Maintain the vehicle with regular checks to ensure more efficient fuel use
• Ensure the petrol tank cap is secured tightly to avoid evaporative emissions as petrol will make a quick escape through a loose cap
• Use engine oils that have Energy Conserving on their labels as they contain friction reducing additives and bring more efficiency benefits
• Remove excess weight i.e. unused golf clubs or bike rack. The more weighed down a car the harder it must work, the more fuel it burns
• Maintain a steady speed - use the highest gear possible and drive with low engine RPM
• Check the tyre pressure frequently - 25% too low tyre pressure increases rolling resistance by 10% and your fuel consumption by 2%.
A good eco driver should expect from a 5-15% reduction in fuel use. Yep that's certainly enough to make the effort. A good example of how all the little things add up.
The Eco Driving website has a virtual road test for you to practice your new lessons. I hope you have better luck than my 0 score - let's just say I should most definitely stick to the cycle ways!
