The French government has set itself the target of reducing transport-related greenhouse gas emissions by 20% by 2020. How can we achieve this? Public transport, electric vehicles, car-sharing, critair stickers... there are a growing number of solutions for saving money and reducing CO2 emissions. But you don't feel concerned, or you're not convinced? There's one last option: adopt eco-driving.
Eco-driving: you've got everything to gain!
Whether you're a professional (truck, bus, van drivers...) or a private driver, your behavior and habits have an impact not only on safety, but also on the planet. By opting for "intelligent" driving, you can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are responsible for global warming, and save money at the same time.
"Eco-driving saves between 5 and 15% in fuel consumption".
10 simple and effective rules to adopt :
1. Adopt a smoother driving style :
In particular, it's important to respect engine speeds and to shift up quickly when you reach the following thresholds: 2500 rpm for petrol engines and 2000 rpm for diesel vehicles (1000 to 1500 rpm for trucks). It's vital not to push the engine to maximum speed when it's still cold.
2. Reduce speed and maintain a steady pace:
It is advisable to avoid sudden acceleration and unnecessary braking. When slowing down, it's best to use engine braking. If you keep a steady speed or reduce your speed, you'll reduce your CO2 emissions and your expenses.
"If you increase your speed by 10 km/h between 120 and 130 km/h, you will consume 1 L more per 100 km (and save only 4 minutes)".
3. Check your vehicle's load :
To limit wind resistance, a rear-mounted bike rack is preferable to a roof-mounted bike rack. Bulky loads should be transported in a trailer rather than a roof rack. Note that when you're not using this equipment, especially roof boxes, it's best to dismantle them.
"Using a roof box generates 17% more fuel consumption when it's full, and 5% when it's empty".
4. Anticipate your driving :
Anticipatory driving enables you to anticipate the behavior of other drivers. It's therefore essential to look far ahead, stay focused on the road and the signs, and avoid consulting your smartphone, for example. And don't forget to keep a safe distance from your predecessors. These gestures are not insignificant, as they help to avoid sudden braking, maintain a steady speed and limit the risk of accident.
5. Watch out for accessories:
Summer and winter alike, comfort in the passenger compartment is essential, but heating and air conditioning must be used sparingly. Once you've defrosted and demisted your vehicle, remember to turn them off.
"Air conditioning increases fuel consumption by 20-30%".
6. Plan your journey in advance :
GPS and other applications are very useful for getting us to our destination, but not only! These tools not only save us unnecessary kilometers, but also help us to consume less by avoiding traffic jams.
7. Using assistive devices :
The use of cruise control is useful for maintaining a constant speed, but when driving uphill, its use generates excessive fuel consumption. The "Stop & Start" system is an excellent way of limiting fuel consumption by switching off the engine instead of letting it idle.
"Stop & Start saves 3 to 5% on fuel and the same amount on CO2 emissions.
8. Vehicle maintenance :
It's crucial to keep track of your vehicle by following the manufacturer's recommendations for oil and air filter changes, as well as pollution control. Finally, it's essential to monitor tire wear and adapt tire pressure to the vehicle's load.
"A well-maintained vehicle means less pollution and fuel savings of up to 10%".
9. Monitor your consumption :
On most vehicles, you can monitor your fuel consumption (L/100km) using the instantaneous or average trip display. If CO2 emissions are more difficult to measure, you'll find satisfaction in tracking your budget, which you'll see decrease considerably.
10. Raising awareness :
Whether you're a professional eco-driver or a private individual, everyone who is convinced reaps both personal and collective benefits. So it's crucial to be able to pass on all the information in your possession, so that everyone can contribute to the well-being of all.
Happy eco-driving!