How to Pass Eco-Friendly Driving Test

Pupils will need to show that they are aware of the need for fuel efficiency and an environmentally friendly approach in all aspects of their driving. As an ADI they will need to be able to encourage their new drivers in the use of all these various techniques.
Eco friendly driving can make a significant impact on the global use of conventional fuels and make a positive contribution to the reduction of carbon emissions. This process starts with an awareness of the availability of vehicles with alternative fuels such as electric and dual fuel power.
To make an improvement in your own fuel-efficient driving, there are many areas that can be considered,

1. Acceleration: The use of acceleration should be steady, smooth and progressive whenever possible, avoiding unnecessary speed peak, a smooth driving style can save up to 10% of fuel used. Where appropriate cruise control should be used as this can be more efficient on fuel usage.
2. Braking: Use of footbrake should be smooth and positive with a certain amount of tapering on and off. Avoid any harsh use of the brakes by easing off the accelerator earlier where possible.
3. Gear changes: Gear changes need to be made effectively with block changes up and down where appropriate. Move into the higher gears reasonably quickly, cars with manual gear change are more fuel-efficient than automatics
4. Hazard awareness and forward planning techniques: These planning techniques should be used effectively to minimize any unnecessary or harsh changes of speed or direction. Hazard identified at an early stage giving adequate time to respond and to decelerate as appropriate.
5. Vehicle sympathy: Engine speed should be kept relatively low whenever possible. Generally keeping engine speed to about 3,000 rpm can save a considerable amount of fuel. All control should be used smoothly to avoid any unnecessary sharp fluctuations in speed.
6. Manoeuvring: Reversing into a parking space and then driving out forwards is regarded as more fuel efficient than reversing out when the engine is cold
7. Speed: keep to all legal speed limits and plan well ahead for any changes. Some experts reckon that by reducing your speed from 80 mph to 70 mph can save a considerable amount of fuel. Complied with all speed limits. Speed is appropriate to all road, traffic and weather condition.
8. Air conditioning: avoid using air condition or climate control unless it is necessary. Also avoid driving with open windows and sunroof.
9. Starting up and moving off: avoid excessive use of the accelerator. Moves off promptly and smoothly.
10. Engine power and torque: utilized higher gear at lower engine speed where appropriate without causing the engine to labour.
11. Cruise control: used in appropriate situations but without compromising  road safety

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