📝
Eco-Driving (Sparsamt körsätt) is a driving style that reduces fuel consumption and environmental impact. It is also a critical assessment point during your driving test.
Key Principles
- Plan Ahead: Look far ahead to anticipate traffic flow. Avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration.
- Engine Braking: When approaching a red light or intersection, release the gas pedal early and let the car roll in gear (with injection cut-off). Do not press the clutch until you are about to stop.
- Skip Gears: You don't need to use every gear.
- 30 km/h -> 3rd gear
- 50 km/h -> 4th or 5th gear
- Example: Accelerate in 2nd, then switch directly to 4th.
- Distinct Acceleration: Accelerate firmly (about half throttle) up to your target speed, then shift up and maintain a steady speed.
- Check Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption.
Why is it important?
- For the Test: Failure to demonstrate eco-driving can lead to failing the driving test.
- For Your Wallet: You can save 10-20% on fuel costs.
- For the Planet: Reduces CO2 emissions.
Mastering these techniques shows the inspector that you are a modern, responsible driver.