The car is a symbol of freedom and independence, but it is essential to adopt responsible behaviors to reduce environmental impact, whether it is a gasoline, diesel or electric car. With a few simple steps, we can reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions, making every trip more sustainable. Here are 10 practical tips that can make a difference:
1. Keep a constant speed (as much as possible)
Sudden acceleration and braking are among the main enemies of engine efficiency, whether it is a heat engine or an electric motor. Driving smoothly and steadily not only reduces energy and fuel consumption, but also contributes to safer driving. Even for electric cars, maintaining a constant speed is helpful in optimizing battery life.
2. Choose the right gear
Whether you drive a gasoline- or diesel-powered car, selecting the most appropriate gear is critical to optimizing fuel consumption. In the case of electric cars, many offer different driving modes, such as “Eco” mode, which helps reduce energy consumption by limiting power output. Choosing the right mode based on driving conditions allows you to optimize performance and range.
3. Reduce speed
Traveling at high speeds increases the aerodynamic drag of any type of car, electric or otherwise; as a result, fuel consumption increases. Limiting speed, especially on the highway, is a simple way to save energy and reduce emissions. For example, a 10 km/h speed reduction from 130 to 120 km/h on the highway can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20%.
4. Turn off the engine when you are stopped
For endothermic cars, leaving the engine running while stopped for more than 30 seconds is a waste of fuel. On the other hand, if you drive an electric car, there is no need to turn off the engine at traffic lights or in traffic jams, because an electric car, unlike gasoline or diesel cars, does not consume energy to keep the engine “running” when it is stopped. This is one of the advantages of electric driving, which further reduces the environmental impact compared to combustion vehicles.
5. Limit the use of air conditioning
However, air conditioning is a convenience that requires considerable energy expenditure, increasing fuel consumption. Better to use it in moderation and prefer open windows whenever possible (at low speeds, within 50 km/h), not forgetting that in some cases the use of ventilation may be a sufficient solution to cool the passenger compartment.
6. Close the windows at high speeds
Although it might seem natural to open the windows to cool the car, at high speeds this habit increases aerodynamic drag and thus fuel consumption. When traveling at high speeds (above 60 km/h), it is best to keep the windows closed and limit the use of air conditioning.
7. Check tire pressure
Deflated tires result in increased rolling resistance, which leads to higher fuel consumption. It is important to check tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the manufacturer’s recommended values to optimize vehicle efficiency and reduce tire wear.
8. Avoid rush hours and traffic
Congested traffic is the enemy of energy efficiency for both endothermic and electric vehicles. Constant braking and acceleration increase energy consumption. If possible, plan your trips to avoid rush hours or consider sustainable alternatives, such as biking or public transportation. You can also save time with proper planning!
9. Plan the route in advance
Using a navigation system or app to calculate the fastest route with the least traffic can make a big difference in fuel consumption. Although a slightly longer route might seem counterintuitive for this purpose, often avoiding traffic and reducing travel time can save fuel.
10. Do regular maintenance of the car
A well maintained car runs more efficiently. A car that “runs well,” endothermic or electrically powered, consumes less energy and has less environmental impact.
Although it may seem that our daily actions are small drops in the ocean, every small change in the way we drive can have a big impact on the environment. By adopting these simple tips, we can not only save fuel and money, but also help reduce CO2 emissions and protect our planet. Every responsible driving choice brings us closer to a more sustainable future for future generations.
