More and more companies are encouraging their drivers to adopt an ecological driving style. This not only helps to reduce costs, but also to meet environmental targets. You can find out exactly what eco-driving is and which technologies are involved here.
What is Eco-Driving?
Eco-driving is an environmentally conscious driving style that aims to reduce fuel consumption and harmful emissions. Many car manufacturers already equip their vehicles with eco-driving modes and technologies that support fuel-efficient driving.
Why is eco-driving important for the vehicle fleet?
A fuel-efficient driving style plays an important role in fleet management, as it both saves costs and protects the environment:
- Fuel consumption can be significantly reduced through such a driving technique, which reduces costs in the fleet. After all, fuel is a major cost center.
- Lower fuel consumption also means fewer environmentally harmful emissions and other pollutants are released. This helps to improve air quality and reduce the company’s ecological footprint – an important step towards a sustainable fleet.
- In addition, eco-driving also reduces wear and tear on vehicles and extends the service life of the vehicles in the fleet.
- An anticipatory driving style reduces the risk of accidents and increases driving and road safety. And fewer accidents mean less downtime and lower insurance premiums.
What techniques are involved in this driving practice?
Eco-driving comprises a range of different driving techniques. These include, among others:
Smooth braking and acceleration
Company car drivers should accelerate slowly and smoothly while driving and maintain a constant speed. Also avoid abrupt braking maneuvers by paying close attention to the traffic and surroundings and braking early. It is also important to maintain a sufficient distance from the vehicle in front in order to remain responsive. Drivers can use cruise control to maintain a constant speed. This is particularly worthwhile for trips out of town and on the highway.
Low speed
Encourage company car drivers to drive at low revs in a high gear so that the engine is used as efficiently as possible. If they shift to a higher gear early on, the engine will not be revved up unnecessarily.
Avoid idling
When idling, the engine continues to consume a small amount of fuel, even if the accelerator pedal is not pressed. How much fuel is actually consumed when idling depends on various factors. However, this can be up to 2 liters per hour. Drivers should therefore leave the gear engaged when coasting or when stopped at a red light.
Check tire pressure
Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and thus fuel consumption. Therefore, have the tire pressure checked regularly and bring it up to the level recommended by the manufacturer.
Regular maintenance
Regular inspections and maintenance are also part of eco-driving. This ensures that the engine runs efficiently and that there are no unnecessary resistances or defects.
