Environment, economy and eco-driving
This domain tests fuel and emissions management in a heavy combination: where consumption actually goes and how planning and driving style change it.
Where the fuel goes
At 40 t, rolling resistance, air drag and driving style dominate. Keep tyres at the pressure specified for the load; soft tyres cost fuel and overheat. Keep aerodynamic aids intact and remove unnecessary weight.
Style
- Anticipate: lift early for junctions, roundabouts and speed changes instead of braking late.
- Accelerate firmly but briefly, then settle into the highest gear that pulls cleanly, in the green band on the rev counter.
- Use cruise control on steady motorway running, not on hilly roads where it brakes and accelerates wastefully.
- Switch off when stationary; unnecessary idling is prohibited in many built-up areas.
Planning
Route choice affects fuel and cost. Low-emission zones in Oslo and Bergen restrict older diesel heavy vehicles, and tolls are differentiated by emissions class. Keep AdBlue topped up and allow DPF regeneration; a derated engine burns more.
Worked example
A driver idles 45 minutes a day. At roughly 2 to 3 litres per hour that is 1.5 to 2 litres a day, around 40 litres a month, plus engine wear and a fine risk. Cutting the idle also reduces noise and particulates at the terminal.
Traps that cost marks
- Thinking eco-driving means driving slowly everywhere; it means smooth, planned driving at the posted limit.
- Overinflating tyres beyond specification to save fuel, which reduces grip.
- Ignoring a low AdBlue warning until the engine derates.