10 Eco-Driving Tactics Save Gas

You can decrease fuel use even in a gas guzzler by driving intelligently, that is, using 'eco-driving' techniques. That said, most people don't have a clue how to go about this. Recognizing that hands-on instruction is critical for achieving the full potential of eco-driving, Ford of Germany instituted eco-driving training in the 1990s in cooperation with the German Road Safety Council. In this program, specially trained and certified instructors provide an eco-training course for fleet drivers and customers.

Eco-driving refers to specific driving behaviors that improve fuel economy, save money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and promote safe driving. Ford says that for maximum fuel savings, instruction must be customized after trainers have had the opportunity to observe individual driving habits. Then coaching can be provided for more fuel efficient driving techniques.

Several master eco-driving trainers from Ford of Germany have come to Dearborn to teach drivers with the Pro Formance Group their coaching techniques. Also, Ford of Germany's eco-driving expertise has been used to develop a pilot program for certifying eco-driving instructors who will train Ford's fleet customers in the U.S.

Pro Formance already provides training for Ford's 'Driving Skills for Life' programs aimed at teen drivers. Instructors typically have a racing background with intimate knowledge of a vehicle's mechanics and handling dynamics. They have hundreds of hours of experience observing driving behavior and communicating how best to maximize a vehicle's performance for fuel efficiency and safety.

Recently, Ford and the Pro Formance drivers conducted validation tests for the program in Phoenix using volunteers who were given individual coaching on specific driving behaviors. The Sports Car Club of America verified the results. Forty-eight volunteers participating in the four-day program were coached in techniques that included smoother braking and acceleration, monitoring of engine rpm's, and driving at moderate speeds.

Drivers who took part in the validation tests turned in fuel savings ranging from six percent to over 50 percent, depending on their driving style and ability to master eco-driving behaviors. Overall, there was an average 24 percent improvement in fuel economy as a result of hands-on eco-driving training.

According to Curt Magleby, Ford's director of Governmental Affairs, Ford is talking with fleet owners first since they have large numbers of vehicles and drivers that could realize significant benefit from such training, Ultimately, says Magleby, all drivers can benefit from practicing eco-driving and one day it may be considered mandatory as part of all new driver training.

In the meantime, there's this tantalizing thought: Ford says that if every American practiced eco-driving and only got the modest EPA-estimated 15 percent benefit in better fuel economy, more than 22 billion gallons of gasoline would be saved.

Here's Ford's list of 10 eco driving tips that should help accomplish this goal:

1. Slow Down and Watch Your Speed
The EPA estimates that driving 55 mph instead of 65 means a 10 to 15 percent improvement in fuel economy. Also, drive at a constant speed since pumping the accelerator wastes fuel. Using cruise control whenever possible can help.

2. Accelerate and Brake Smoothly
Fast starts, weaving in and out of traffic and hard braking wastes fuel and wears out brakes and tires, more quickly. Maintain a safe distance between vehicles and anticipate traffic conditions to allow for more time to brake and accelerate gradually.

3. No Idling
Today's engines don't need a warm up. Prolonged idling increases emissions and wastes fuel. Turn the engine off when idling more than 30 seconds.

4. Check Your Tires
Keep tires properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. It can reduce fuel use by 3-4 percent. Under-inflated tires also wear more rapidly.

5. Be Kind to Your Vehicle
Perform recommended tune-ups and keep the wheels aligned. Replace air filters as recommended and use a fuel with good detergent additives to keep the vehicle engine clean and performing efficiently. Consult the owner's manual for proper maintenance.

6. Travel Light
Avoid piling a lot of luggage on a roof rack and remove excess weight that makes the engine work harder and consume more fuel.

7. Minimize Heating and Air Conditioning
Use heating and air conditioning selectively to reduce load on the engine. Decreasing use of the air conditioner when temperatures are above 80 degrees can bring 10-15 percent fuel savings. Park in the shade to keep your car cool and reduce the need for air conditioning.

8. Close Windows at High Speeds
Don't drive with the windows open except under 50 mph. Driving with the windows open at highway speeds increases aerodynamic drag on the vehicle and lowers fuel economy.

9. Choose the Right Oil
Use good quality oils with the viscosity grade recommended in your owner's manual. Ford recommends SAE 5W-20 oil for most cars and trucks to provide the best fuel economy.

10. Consolidate Trips
Plan ahead to consolidate your trips and avoid congested routes that increase idling.