Search Jardine News
Open Navigation Menu
How to

Top tips for eco-safe driving

What is eco-safe driving?

Eco-safe driving refers to a style of motoring that is both safe and reduces fuel emissions, therefore contributing to a greener planet. Driving in an eco-safe manner can encompass many different things, and here are a few tips to help you do your bit to protect the environment.

Your eco-friendly driving tips

Lighten the load

If you don’t need them for that journey, remove any heavy items from the back of your car. If you’re not heading to the course, leave the golf clubs in the garage, and if you’re venturing out for a child-free day, you don’t need that cumbersome pram taking up space in the boot. Carrying around excess weight means your engine is having to work harder and burn more fuel, so shedding that load can improve your eco-safe driving.

Turn off the A/C

Even your air conditioning system uses up fuel, so unless you really need it blasting out, you might want to consider turning off those fans. Of course, in extreme weather conditions it’s comforting to be able to rely on that luxury of temperature regulation, but for eco-friendly driving we recommend only using the A/C when it’s absolutely essential.

Drive with care

Eco-safe driving is perhaps not something that comes naturally to many drivers, but there are a few habits you can get into that will improve your fuel efficiency. Steady acceleration, gentle braking, sticking to the speed limit and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles are all positive behaviours to adopt. Let’s face it, they’re all things we were taught during our lessons, but were perhaps soon forgotten!

Turn off your engine

There are few things more frustrating than getting stuck in traffic, but sitting there with the engine idling is nothing more than a waste of fuel. If you’re unlikely to be moving for an extended period, turn your engine off and conserve your tank.

These days, many cars boast stop-start technology, which will automatically shut off your engine when you’re stationary, but if your vehicle doesn’t have this feature then you’ll need to do it manually. It can easily slip your mind, but it’s a tip that will improve your eco-friendly driving, and over the course of a year could make a significant difference to your consumption and emissions.

Carry out regular maintenance

A properly working vehicle will run much more smoothly, so make sure yours is undergoing regular health checks to ensure all parts are performing as they should. Your service and MOT should reveal any problems when you take your car into the garage, but it’s important that you keep an eye out for any potential faults in the meantime. For example, a damaged exhaust will have a detrimental effect on your emissions, so keep your eyes and ears peeled and be sure to deal with any issues as soon as they arise.

Go electric

All of the above eco-friendly driving tips are aimed at those with traditional petrol or diesel engines, but why not cut out your emissions altogether? As we’ve already touched upon, electric models are expected to soar in popularity as the green revolution gathers pace. If you’re worried about how to avoid pollution while driving, an EV can prove the perfect solution. It’s a big step to make, but the automotive industry is set for significant changes and the prevalence of emission-free cars is sure to be at the forefront of that shift.

Join the electric revolution with Jardine Motors

If you want to improve your eco-safe driving habits, why not make a major statement and go electric? We have a wide range of new and used EVs for you to choose from, featuring leading brands including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and MINI.

If you’d like to find out more or you’d like to book a test drive, please feel free to get in touch or find your nearest dealership and we’ll be more than happy to help you on your eco-friendly driving journey.

You Might Also Like

8 Reasons To Buy An Electric Or Hybrid Car

The Most Economical Cars On The Market

Low Emission Zones: Everything You Need To Know

Visit our YouTube channel, where you can find more car reviews and walkarounds by our fantastic experts.