As we continue to produce millions of tons of greenhouse gases every year, the effect that driving and related industries have on the environment is becoming ever more important. This post by carinsurance.ae takes a look at some ways you can drive in a more eco-friendly manner.
Eco-friendly driving isn’t just about saving the environment, it can save you money as well. The best way to cut down on emissions is to cut down on fuel consumption.
When we look at your vehicle itself, we want to minimise the amount of work it has to do. Make sure to check your tyre pressure on a regular basis. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling-resistance, thus increasing your fuel consumption. Likewise, if you have roof racks mounted, consider removing them when not actually using them. The drag caused by unused roof racks has a big impact on fuel use.
Still looking at your vehicle, check your boot and remove any unnecessary weight. We’re not suggesting you remove your spare tyre, but if you regularly leave heavy items like golf clubs in your boot, take them out when not using them. The heavier your car is, the more petrol it’ll use to accelerate to the same speed.
The most reliable fuel-saving tips come from the way you drive. Flooring it from every traffic light and intersection may save you a minute on your commute to work, but it’s going to cost both you and the environment. The best fuel consumption can be seen by practicing smooth driving techniques. You use the most fuel when accelerating, and the faster you accelerate, the more fuel you use. Accelerate at a moderate rate, and where possible, use your engine braking to slow you down before braking, especially on long downhill sections.
The way you drive also affects those around you. Always be aware of what’s happening in front of you, to prevent having to take last minute actions. By driving at constant speeds, you are not only saving yourself fuel, but helping those around you drive in a similar manner increasing the benefits to the environment.
The faster you drive on the highways, the more fuel you consume per kilometre. Studies have shown that driving at 130km/h as opposed to 115km/h can use up to 25% more fuel. On a trip that’s only 20km long, that same speed difference will save you less than a minute in time.
Other tips include avoiding rush hour traffic and congested roads, as these prevent you from driving at a constant speed. You also tend to sit still a lot, with the engine idling. If possible, opt for a car with stop-start technology that turns the engine off when not moving.
If you really want to save the environment, the best way to do it is to cut down on driving at all. Look for alternatives such as public transport, cycling or even carpooling. Just two people in a single car already almost halves the impact on the environment compared to driving alone.
As a closing thought, remember that being eco-friendly starts with the choice of car that you make. Choosing cars with plug-in technology can help cut down on greenhouse emissions, especially in countries with high amounts of renewable energy.
This a guest post by carinsurance.ae, a website that allows you to compare car insurance in UAE.