Environmental Protection and Fuel Efficiency
Core Concepts
Eco-driving reduces fuel consumption and emissions. Techniques: smooth acceleration and braking, maintaining steady speed, using highest practical gear, anticipating traffic flow, and avoiding unnecessary idling. Regular maintenance (clean air filter, correct tyre pressure, engine tuning) improves efficiency. In Bulgaria, vehicles must meet emission standards; excessive smoke is prohibited. Electric and hybrid vehicles are encouraged with incentives. Fuel efficiency tips: remove roof racks when not needed, avoid carrying excess weight, use air conditioning sparingly.
Traps in Questions
- Idling: Questions may ask if you should leave the engine running while waiting; the answer is no, turn it off if waiting more than 30 seconds.
- Tyre pressure: Under-inflated tyres increase fuel consumption.
- Gear usage: Driving in low gear at high speed wastes fuel; shift up early.
- Air conditioning: Increases fuel consumption; use vents or open windows at low speeds.
Worked Example
You are waiting to pick up a friend and expect to wait 10 minutes. Should you keep the engine running? No, idling wastes fuel and increases emissions. Turn off the engine and restart when needed. Modern cars have stop-start systems that do this automatically.
Rule of Thumb
"Smooth and steady saves fuel." Anticipate, don't accelerate and brake aggressively.