Today’s motorist is becoming increasingly conscious of the world’s most pressing environmental concerns. As a result, drivers in general are making more effort than ever before to make their motoring habits at least a little environmentally friendly.
Of course, some of these good driving habits have essentially been forced on the public and are mandatory. Vehicles must pass certain emission tests to be allowed on public roads, people are being urged to switch to hybrids or EVs, and the government’s clampdown on diesel vehicles continues.
But there is also much that can be done in terms of the way you drive in a general basis that can contribute to the cause. If you drive a petrol, diesel, or hybrid car, the way you pilot your vehicle from A to B has a major impact on its carbon emissions.
All of which is basically linked to fuel efficiency – i.e. the amount of fuel you burn to get to your destination.
So, for those looking to get on board with the whole ‘eco safe’ driving movement and do their bit for the environment, here’s how to reduce your carbon footprint while driving:
- Don’t accelerate too aggressively
Accelerating aggressively to get your desired speed burns a ton of fuel. It is the least fuel-efficient way to get to the required speed and produces a lot of carbon emissions. Aggressive acceleration can also take a toll on some of your vehicle’s key components and therefore isn’t recommended in general.
- Make sure you are in the right gear
As soon as it is possible to shift up to the next gear, that’s what you should be doing. Likewise, making sure the gear you are in is suitable for the speed you are travelling at is essential. Travelling long distances in third gear when you could easily be in fourth or fifth gear will make a huge difference to your car’s carbon output.
- Plan your journeys in advance
Inadvertently getting stuck in traffic is one of the worst things you can do for the environment. Sitting around for extensive periods of time with your car idling isn’t good for anyone, nor is accidentally taking the long route to your destination, or getting lost and burning more fuel than you needed to.
- Turn your engine off
Speaking of idling, it is prudent to switch off your vehicle’s engine anytime you are not likely to be moving for a while. This includes getting stuck in traffic jams, where it is far from uncommon to be sitting motionless for minutes on end. If your car doesn’t have an auto engine shut-off feature, you’ll need to oversee it manually.
- Keep your car well maintained
The condition your car is in at any given time will also have a major impact on fuel efficiency. A car that is regularly serviced and kept in the best possible state of repair will always be more energy efficient. By contrast, the more you overlook the repairs and tweaks your car clearly needs the more eco unfriendly it becomes.
- Check Your Tyre Pressures
Many (if not most) drivers don’t realise that incorrect tyre pressures are detrimental to fuel economy. When tyres are underinflated, it takes additional power to propel the car along at an appropriate speed. Consequently, every journey will result in excess fuel consumption, and more carbon emissions than necessary.
For more information on any of the services we provide or to discuss booking a block of driving lessons in manchester, contact a member of the team at Adams Driver Trainer today.
