Eco-driving

Eco-driving is a driving style that helps the driver reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Making better use of the gearbox

With a manual gearbox, pull away gently, do not delay changing up, and change gear fairly early. Some vehicles are fitted with a gear shift indicator which recommends changing up; if it appears in the instrument cluster, change up.

With an automatic or automated gearbox, set the selector to Drive “D” or Auto “A”, depending on the gearbox type, and do not press the accelerator pedal hard or suddenly.

Maintain a calm driving style.

Keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Use engine braking in preference to the brake pedal, and press the accelerator pedal gradually. This driving style helps reduce fuel consumption, reduce CO2 emissions and lower noise.

When driving on a flat, steady road, if the vehicle is fitted with the 'Cruise' switch on the steering wheel, engage cruise control from 40 km/h.

Efficient use of electrical equipment

Before driving, if the cabin is hot, ventilate it by lowering the windows and opening the vents. Only then switch on the air conditioning.

Above 50 km/h, close the windows and leave the vents open.

Use equipment that helps reduce the cabin temperature (close the sunroof blind, fit sunshades, etc.).

Switch off the air conditioning, unless it regulates automatically once the temperature reaches the required level.

Switch off the demisting and defrosting functions when they do not switch off automatically.

Switch off seat heating as soon as possible.

Do not use headlights and fog lamps when road conditions do not require them.

Start the engine just before setting off, especially in winter.

The cabin heats up faster while driving.

Limiting the connection of portable devices (audio/video players, game consoles) helps reduce energy consumption and therefore fuel consumption.

Disconnect portable devices before leaving the vehicle.

Reducing causes of excessive fuel consumption

Distribute the load over the whole vehicle. Place the heaviest luggage at the back of the boot, as close as possible to the rear seats.

Limit the load on the vehicle and minimise aerodynamic drag (roof bars, roof rails, bicycle carriers, trailer, etc.). Preferably use a roof box.

Remove roof bars and roof rails when they are not needed.

At the end of the winter season, remove the winter tyres and fit summer tyres.

Following maintenance recommendations

Regularly check the tyre pressures when the tyres are cold. They must match the label on the driver's door pillar.

Carry out this check in particular:

• before a long journey,
• before each season,
• after a long period of standing.

Remember the spare wheel and the tyres of any trailer or caravan as well.

Carry out regular vehicle maintenance (oil, oil filter, air filter, etc.) and observe the service intervals recommended by the manufacturer.

If the tank is to be filled completely, do not top up after the pump has cut off for the third time.

On a new vehicle, average fuel consumption becomes consistent only after 3,000 km.