Driving an internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle economically can reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions, and save money. Here’s a straightforward guide with some helpful tips:
1. Smooth Acceleration and Braking
- Tip: Avoid sudden acceleration or harsh braking, as these use more fuel.
- Hint: Imagine there’s an egg under the accelerator pedal to remind you to press gently. Anticipate stops early to avoid sudden braking.
2. Maintain a Steady Speed
- Tip: Driving at a steady, moderate speed helps reduce fuel consumption.
- Hint: Use cruise control on flat roads where possible. Keeping your speed around 55-65 mph (where safe) is typically most efficient.
3. Shift Gears Early (For Manual Transmission)
- Tip: Change to a higher gear as soon as possible without straining the engine, as lower gears use more fuel.
- Hint: Aim to shift up around 2,000-2,500 RPM for most petrol engines (or around 1,500 RPM for diesels).
Driving an electric (EV) or hybrid vehicle efficiently helps extend battery range, reduces charging frequency, and maximises savings. Here’s a simple guide with tips to get the most from your battery:
1. Accelerate Smoothly
- Tip: Rapid acceleration uses more energy, especially in EVs with instant torque.
- Hint: Gently press the pedal and aim for a smooth, gradual increase in speed.
2. Use Regenerative Braking
- Tip: Regenerative braking recaptures energy and sends it back to the battery.
- Hint: Anticipate stops and allow the car to decelerate naturally rather than braking sharply. Adjust regen settings if available.
3. Maintain Moderate, Steady Speeds
- Tip: High speeds drain the battery faster than moderate driving.
- Hint: On highways, try to keep speeds around 55-65 mph for optimal efficiency.
4. Limit Use of Climate Controls
- Tip: Air conditioning and heating can drain the battery quickly.
- Hint: Use eco climate settings, or pre-condition the cabin while the car is plugged in to save battery power.
5. Avoid Excess Weight
- Tip: Extra weight reduces range by making the motor work harder.
- Hint: Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and cabin.
6. Plan Efficient Routes
- Tip: Shorter, flatter routes use less battery power than long or hilly drives.
- Hint: Plan routes that avoid traffic and heavy elevation changes and use the car’s eco-mode for increased efficiency.
7. Use Eco Mode Where Possible
- Tip: Most EVs and hybrids have eco-driving modes that optimise performance for range.
- Hint: Turn on eco mode for everyday driving; it moderates acceleration and adjusts climate control for efficiency.
Following these tips will help maximise your EV or hybrid’s range and reduce the need for frequent charging, especially on longer trips.
