Environment, economy and vehicle maintenance
What the exam tests
Environment, economy and maintenance tests eco-driving, fuel use, emissions and basic maintenance for a C1 lorry.
Core rules
- Eco-driving: smooth acceleration, early gear changes, steady speed, anticipation and engine braking. Avoid unnecessary idling.
- Correct tyre pressure reduces rolling resistance and wear. Check pressures when tyres are cold.
- Follow service intervals; check oil, coolant, AdBlue, brakes and filters. A poorly maintained engine uses more fuel and emits more.
- Plan routes and loads to avoid empty running. Reduce aerodynamic drag and unnecessary weight.
- Euro emission standards and AdBlue/SCR reduce NOx; do not tamper with emission systems.
Worked example
A driver notices fuel consumption rising by 10%. The tyres look normal but are 0.5 bar below recommended pressure, and the air filter is dirty. Correct: inflate tyres to the cold pressure specified for the load, replace the filter, and check driving style. Wrong: ignore it because the lorry still runs.
Traps
Do not check tyre pressure when hot and then let air out. Do not assume low tyre pressure only affects comfort. Do not remove or tamper with emission controls. Do not leave the engine idling for long periods.