Environmental Awareness and Fuel-Efficient Driving
Why it matters for professional drivers
Fuel is a major operating cost and emissions are regulated. Efficient driving reduces both, and Belgian low-emission zones (LEZ) in cities such as Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent restrict older lorries. Drivers must know the Euro emission class of their vehicle and check LEZ registration requirements before entering a city.
Techniques that save fuel
Anticipate traffic and avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. Use engine braking and cruise control where appropriate, keep revs in the economical band, and avoid idling: switch off the engine during long waits. Tyre pressure affects rolling resistance, so under-inflated tyres increase fuel use and wear. Roof deflectors and side skirts reduce aerodynamic drag. Route planning avoids congestion and unnecessary kilometres, and correct loading reduces wasted journeys.
Traps in questions
A common trap is thinking that air conditioning should always be switched off: at high speed, open windows increase drag more than air conditioning costs. Another is assuming engine idling is harmless; prolonged idling wastes fuel and increases wear. Questions may also test that eco-driving does not mean slow driving, but smooth driving.
Worked example
On a motorway a driver can gain fuel by maintaining a steady speed, keeping a large gap to the vehicle ahead and lifting off early before an exit rather than braking late. The rule of thumb: every harsh acceleration or braking event costs fuel, so aim to brake as little as possible by planning ahead.