What are the basic principles of ecodriving? Are there differences in ecodriving techniques for petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric cars? In the ninth episode of AmberPodcast, together with Tadeusz Brzezinski from Turbo Jazda Driving School, we discuss simple principles and techniques that every driver can implement on a daily basis – regardless of whether they are driving in the city or on the motorway. If you want to learn how to take care of your car and the planet at the same time, turn on the ninth episode of AmberPodcast and discover how a few changes behind the wheel can bring real benefits.
Anna Kordecka: Welcome to the next episode of the Amber Podcast. Today we will talk about how we can become greener drivers and thus contribute to the protection of the environment. Our today’s guest, Mr. Tadeusz Brzeziński, will tell us about the secrets of ecodriving, i.e. driving techniques that allow you to save fuel and reduce the emission of harmful substances. Hello.
Tadeusz Brzeziński: Good morning, welcome to everyone and to you.
AK: Let’s start with the very concept of ecodriving. What is eco-driving and what are the basic principles and benefits?
TB: Ecodriving is a driving style that aims to reduce fuel consumption and emissions of harmful substances that get into the atmosphere. Although it may seem that ecodriving is complicated, in practice it relies on simple rules. One of them is, for example, a smooth ride. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, shift smoothly and maintain a constant speed. These factors are the key to eco-driving and fuel savings. Another element is anticipating the situation. Observing the surroundings, the traffic situation and anticipating the behavior of other drivers helps to avoid sudden maneuvers that increase fuel consumption. We should also maintain optimal engine speed. Each engine has a rpm range at which it works most efficiently, so you should try to keep the engine rpm in this range. Ecodriving also includes engine braking. In addition, you should check the tire pressure from time to time. Inadequate pressure increases the rolling resistance of the vehicle and thus causes us to consume more fuel. When it comes to luggage, we should get rid of everything that creates air resistance and remove unnecessary things from the car, because every extra kilo increases fuel consumption. When parked, we turn off the engine and take care of its technical condition, which also helps to save fuel. When it comes to air conditioning, we should use it only when we need it.We also avoid traffic jams, i.e. we plan our route in such a way as to avoid rush hours and places where traffic jams form. Why is eco-driving so important? Firstly, it allows you to save fuel, and thus reduce expenses. In addition, it reduces exhaust emissions, i.e. reduces the negative impact on the environment, and increases safety. Smooth and predictable driving also means safe driving.
AK: There are a lot of rules, but they seem not too complicated. It is worth using them to take full advantage of the benefits of eco-driving. What are these benefits for both us and the environment?
TB: When it comes to drivers, one of the most obvious benefits is the reduction in fuel consumption. With the right driving techniques, such as smooth acceleration, braking and maintaining a constant speed, we can really save a lot. Eco-driving also means reducing the load on the engine and braking system, which translates into a longer service life of the vehicle. Smooth driving, without sudden maneuvers, is comfortable for both the driver and passengers, which increases the comfort of travel. Ecodriving techniques improve driving skills, which in turn increases road safety. Anticipating the situation on the road and avoiding sudden manoeuvres reduce the risk of accidents. Reducing carbon dioxide emissions contributes to reducing the greenhouse effect and slows down climate change. Eco-friendly, smooth driving also means quieter driving, which reduces noise levels in cities and on routes. Reduced fuel consumption means less need for oil, which helps to conserve natural resources. In conclusion, eco-driving is an investment in the future, benefiting both our wallet and the environment. It is worth implementing it and encouraging other drivers to do so.
AK: Thank you very much for your answer. Let’s assume that we know the rules of eco-driving, but we use different cars. Are there differences in ecodriving techniques for petrol, diesel, hybrid or electric cars?
TB: Yes, there are differences in ecodriving techniques for different types of vehicles, although the basic principles – smooth driving and avoiding sudden manoeuvres – are very similar. However, each type of car requires a slightly different approach. In gasoline and diesel cars, smooth driving is crucial. Rapid acceleration and braking increase fuel consumption, so we try to keep the engine speed low, especially at constant speeds. The gears are selected according to the engine speed, which is of great importance for driving economy. Engine braking is also important – before an intersection, it is worth taking your foot off the accelerator to slow down without using the brakes. In hybrid cars , we try to use the electric mode as often as possible, especially in city traffic. Regenerative braking allows energy to be recovered, which is then stored in the battery. It is important to keep the battery at the right charge level and plan the route and charge when possible. It is worth avoiding extreme temperatures in the interior of the vehicle, as air conditioning consumes a large amount of energy. In electric cars, although they are characterized by high acceleration, smooth driving is recommended. Extreme acceleration consumes a lot of energy, so it pays to reduce it to increase the range of the vehicle. To sum up, although the principles of eco-driving are universal, there are specific techniques for each type of drive. It is always worth reading the manufacturer’s manual for a given vehicle.
AK: The principles of eco-driving seem to be simple, which does not mean that we, as drivers, do not make mistakes that increase fuel consumption and emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere. Could you name the most common mistakes of drivers or bad driving habits that have the greatest impact on increasing carbon dioxide emissions?
TB: In my opinion, these are primarily bad habits, or more precisely, acquired, unfavorable habits. One of them is rapid acceleration and braking. What is the reason for this? Rapid changes in speed force the engine to work harder, which leads to higher fuel consumption.
AK: And what solution would we have in such a situation?
TB: We try to accelerate and brake smoothly. We adjust the speed to the road conditions.
AK: Are there any other bad habits that increase our burning?
TB: Yes, of course. Another example of a bad habit is driving in a gear that is too low. The engine then runs at too high revs, which increases fuel consumption. To solve this, we choose the gear according to the speed so that the engine works in the optimal rev range. Another element is driving at high speed. Everyone was young at some point and wanted to try driving faster, but the higher the speed, the greater the air resistance, which also increases fuel consumption.
AK: Exactly, and what can be done to change this habit?
TB: On the one hand, it is worth following the speed limits – thanks to this we avoid unnecessary acceleration. It can also be added that driving with incorrectly set wheel alignment affects fuel consumption. Poor wheel alignment increases rolling resistance, which leads to higher fuel consumption.
AK: I think the solution here may be to simply check the condition of the wheels regularly.
TB: Yes, it is worth adding that we should check the tire pressure from time to time. Under-inflating increases rolling resistance, which leads to higher fuel consumption and faster wear of the tyres themselves – so they should be checked regularly. Our use of air conditioning is also an important factor. Remember that turning on the air conditioning puts a strain on the engine, which also increases fuel consumption. Use it in moderation, especially at low speeds.
AK: And what about unnecessary luggage? Does it have an impact on our eco-driving?
TB: The extra weight increases fuel consumption – and I’m not talking about the mother-in-law, but about the roof racks. Air resistance is one thing, but all the unnecessary things in a car also increase fuel consumption. We should only take with us what we really need, and we should remove unnecessary items.
AK: It is also worth remembering that when we take off the bikes or boxes that we had on the roof after the holidays, it is also good to dismantle the rack itself. Even driving with an empty trunk increases fuel consumption.
TB: It is also worth adding that opening windows at high speeds generates huge air resistance. That is why we try to close the windows and, if necessary, turn on the air conditioning, which then becomes really useful. When it comes to vehicles, inadequate maintenance, i.e. neglecting things such as filter replacement, damaged spark plugs or leaking systems, also leads to increased fuel consumption. We should take care of regular servicing of our vehicle. Remember that each of these factors – even if it occurs individually – can affect higher fuel consumption. Let’s take care of a smooth driving style and regular servicing of the vehicle, and thanks to this we can significantly reduce exhaust emissions and our fuel expenses.
AK: Some eco-driving rules will be more effective on the motorway, others in the city. Which driving techniques are particularly effective in urban traffic and which on long routes?
TB: Driving in the city is characterized by dense traffic, frequent changes of direction and low speeds, so our patience and foresight are key here. We observe other drivers, traffic lights, pedestrians, cyclists – anticipating their actions will allow us to avoid sudden maneuvers. Avoid sudden accelerations and brakes. A smooth ride not only reduces fuel consumption, but also provides a more comfortable ride. Always keep an appropriate distance from the vehicle in front of you, especially at intersections. The concentration in the city is definitely greater than outside it, but it is easy to get distracted. Therefore, it is worth concentrating on the road and avoiding distracting activities. Manoeuvres, frequent lane changes, parking and turning require practice and precision. An experienced driver does it more efficiently, but less experienced drivers may need more time. Driving long distances requires a slightly different approach. It is worth planning the route, taking into account rests and adjusting the speed to the conditions on the road. It is worth planning rest breaks every two hours. If our car has cruise control, it is worth using it to maintain a constant speed and reduce fatigue. We turn on the dipped headlights, even during the day, to improve visibility. Before a long journey, it is worth checking the fluid level, tire pressure and tire condition. Both urban and on-piste riding requires appropriate skills and adaptation of the driving style to the conditions. Remember that safety is the most important thing, so always use common sense and obey traffic rules.
AK: On the way to work or from work, do we often get stuck in traffic jams? Can ecodriving work in such situations? In other words, what eco-driving strategies are most effective when driving in traffic jams?
TB: To avoid traffic jams, it is worth preparing in advance. The first thing you should do is use the navigation and check where the current traffic problems are. Thanks to this, we can avoid traffic jams and adjust the time of departure. Additional tips include: choosing the right lane and avoiding jumping from one lane to another. If you see that traffic is in front of you, use your hazard lights to warn those behind you. Do not start the engine at idle. If you are stuck in traffic for more than a minute, it is worth turning off the engine. Avoid unnecessary maneuvers, such as frequent overtaking or lane changes. Driving in traffic can be very frustrating, but by following these tips, you can significantly improve your well-being and reach your destination safely.
AK: Thank you for these valuable tips. It is worth remembering and, above all, using them. There is a lot of talk about defensive driving and its impact on safety. Does defensive driving support eco-driving, and if so, what techniques can help us save fuel?
TB: A perfect combination. Defensive and eco-friendly driving have a lot in common. They complement each other. Both strive for safe and efficient driving. By anticipating the behavior of other participants, we avoid sudden maneuvers such as accelerating or braking. By keeping the right distances, you have more time to react and you also avoid unnecessary braking or acceleration. It should be remembered that adjusting the speed to the conditions on the road helps us save fuel. Smooth acceleration and braking are the basis for both defensive and eco-friendly driving. Our concentration, i.e. looking ahead, gives us time to anticipate and react. The defensive driving technique helps to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions into our environment. Cruise control allows you to maintain a constant speed, which is especially useful on long journeys. We anticipate the situation, and to do so, we look ahead. We adapt to road conditions, reducing the risk of danger. Let’s brake with the engine. Defensive and eco-driving are closely linked. By applying the principles of both, we not only increase our safety on the road, but also contribute to the protection of the environment by reducing fuel consumption.
AK: Eco-driving is not only about the style of driving, but also about taking proper care of the technical condition of our car. How does eco-driving affect the life of the vehicle and its components?
TB: And here I should answer as a father would say to his child – every touch of the is a spending of his money, i.e. an impact on our economy and ecology, because various pollutants end up in the air. Let’s start with the first pedal, i.e. the accelerator pedal. By adding gas, on the one hand, we consume more fuel, more pollutants get into the air, but also the temperature in the engine increases significantly, which contributes to faster wear of components. The second is the brake pedal. The brake pedal should be used as rarely as possible; It is best to brake with the engine. When we touch the brake, we wear out pads, discs, linings, drums, but also tires. In addition, sudden braking leads to faster wear of other rubber components. As for the clutch, try to use it for as short a time as possible, without keeping it pressed for a long time. Standing at a red light, with the gear engaged and the clutch pedal depressed, we shorten the life of the thrust bearing in the clutch. Regularly checking the technical condition of the vehicle will extend its life. Take care of tire pressure, use high-quality fuels and oils, and replace worn components.
AK: A whole lot of information and I think that during this conversation we managed to prove that eco-driving is basically only about benefits. Thank you very much for today’s conversation, thanks to which I hope you have found out why it is worth following the principles of eco-driving and changing your driving habits to benefit both your wallet and the environment. Our today’s expert in eco-driving was Mr. Tadeusz Brzeziński from the Turbo Jazdy Tadeusz Driving School. Thank you very much for these comprehensive answers. And see you in the next episodes of AmberPodcast.
