Economic driving style
Fig. 1 Fuel consumption in litres per 100 km at two
different outside temperatures.
Fuel consumption, environmental impact and wear of the engine, brakes and tyres can be reduced by adopting the
correct driving style. A few tips are provided below which will help you protect the environment and also save
money.
Think ahead when driving
The fuel consumption will increase if you do not adopt a steady driving style. Keeping a close eye on the traffic can
help to avoid frequent acceleration and braking. Keeping a sufficient distance from the vehicle in front will help you
to think ahead when driving.
Use coasting mode
If neither the accelerator nor brake pedal are pressed in selector lever position D, the vehicle will roll (“coast”) almost
without any energy consumption.
Save energy when changing gear
Accelerate slowly and avoid using the kickdown function.
Observe the gear-change indicator (→ Gear-change indicator).
Avoid driving at full throttle
Never make use of the vehicle’s top speed. The drag coefficient increases at excessively high speeds. This in turn
increases the force needed to move the vehicle.
Reduce idling
Pull away immediately with low engine speeds. If you are stopped for a long period, do not allow the engine to idle
but switch it off, e.g. when in a traffic jam or at a railway crossing.
Refuel moderately
A full fuel tank increases the weight of the vehicle. A fuel tank that is half to three quarters full is sufficient for urban
journeys in particular.
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