Eco-driving is a set of steps, techniques and behaviours that drivers can employ in preparing the vehicle before a journey, in planning the journey, in modifying driving style during the journey and in reviewing trip data after the journey. This style of driving can lead to fuel savings, trip cost savings, reduction in Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions and other pollution, and reduction in levels of noise from the vehicle. There is also evidence to show (Case Study: Toyota) that drivers who use eco-driving techniques have less crashes. Eco-driving is beneficial to road safety because drivers have a greater anticipation for risks and exhibit less erratic and unpredictable behaviour.
Seven key principles of eco-driving
- Plan your trip in advance through journey management
- Remove unnecessary equipment, weight and air resistance from your vehicle
- Maintain tyre pressure at the recommended level
- Accelerate and decelerate smoothly
- Use momentum and speed efficiently
- Use the air conditioner, and other electrical equipment sparingly
- Regularly service your vehicle
Drivers are the number one contributor to both safe and environmentally friendly driving practices.
