|
|
|
139 SAVING FUEL Here are some useful tips to save fuel and minimise harmful emissions of CO 2 and other pollutants (nitric oxides, unburnt hydrocarbons, fine dusts etc.). GENERAL INFORMATION The general factors that affect fuel consumption are listed below. Vehicle maintenance Have checks and adjustments carried out in accordance with the “Scheduled Servicing Plan”. Tyres Check the pressure of the tyres routinely at an interval of no more than 4 weeks: if the pressure is too low, consumption levels increase as resistance to rolling is higher. Unnecessary loads Do not travel with an overloaded luggage compartment. The weight of the vehicle (especially when driving in town) and its geometry greatly affect fuel consumption and stability. Roof rack/ski rack Remove the roof rack or the ski rack from the roof after use. These accessories reduce the aerodynamic coefficient of the vehicle and have a negative effect on fuel consumption. When transporting particularly large objects, use a trailer if possible. Electric devices Use electrical devices only for the amount of time needed. The heated rear window, additional headlights, windscreen/rear window wipers and heater fan need a considerable amount of energy, therefore increasing fuel consumption (by up to 25% in the urban cycle). Climate control module Air conditioning leads to higher fuel consumption (on average up to +20%). If the temperature outside permits, try and use the ventilation only. Devices for aerodynamic control The use of non-certified spoilers may adversely affect air drag and fuel consumption. DRIVING STYLE The main driving styles that affect fuel consumption are listed below. Start Do not warm up the engine at low or high revs when the vehicle is stationary; this causes the engine to warm up more slowly, thereby increasing fuel consumption and emissions. It is therefore advisable to move off immediately, slowly, avoiding high speeds: in this way the engine will warm up more quickly. Unnecessary actions Avoid accelerating when stopped at traffic lights or before switching off the engine. This action and also double declutching is absolutely pointless on modern cars and also increases consumption and pollution. Gear selection As soon as the conditions of the traffic and road permit, use a higher gear. Using a low gear for faster acceleration will increase fuel consumption. gear increases consumption, emissions and engine wear. Top speed Fuel consumption increases considerably with speed. Maintain a constant speed, avoiding unnecessary braking and acceleration, which cost in terms of both fuel consumption and emissions. Acceleration Accelerating violently will greatly affect consumption and emissions: acceleration should be gradual. CONDITIONS OF USE The main usage conditions that negatively affect fuel consumption are listed below. |