Vehicles with gear recommendation aid in fuel efficient driving by in-
dicating the optimum time to shift gears.
Coasting
If you take your foot off the accelerator, fuel delivery to the engine is
interrupted, which lowers fuel consumption.
Therefore, when nearing a red stop light, for instance, allow the vehi-
cle to coast without using the accelerator. Press the clutch pedal and
release it only if the vehicle moving too slowly or the coasting dis-
tance is too long. The engine will then continue to run at idle.
In situations where the vehicle will be stopped for a longer period of
time, such as at a railroad crossing, physically switch off the engine.
Defensive driving and “flowing” with traffic
Frequent braking and acceleration increase fuel consumption signifi-
cantly. Just by driving defensively and keeping a sufficiently large
distance away from the vehicle in front of you can make up for the
speed fluctuations caused by taking your foot off the accelerator. Ac-
tive braking and accelerating is then not necessarily required.
Calm and smooth driving
Consistency is more important than speed. The more smoothly you
drive, the less fuel the vehicle consumes.
When driving on the highway or freeway, a constant, moderate speed
is more efficient and economical than constantly accelerating and
braking. Usually you can reach your destination just as quickly by
driving at a moderate, but steady speed.
The cruise control system can assist in maintaining a uniform driving
style.
Moderate use of extra electrical loads
Comfort inside the vehicle is nice and important, but it is important to
use them in an environmentally conscious manner.
Some devices can increase fuel consumption when activated (exam-
ples):
Climate control system (air conditioner): If the air conditioner has to
produce starkly contrasting temperatures, it requires a large amount
of energy, which is generated by the engine. The temperature in the
vehicle should therefore not be extremely different from that of the
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