| Factors That Affect On-Road Fuel Consumption
Temperature
- At 0°C, fuel consumption is increased about 8 percent while at -30°C, consumption
is increased by an average 30 percent.
Terrain and road
- Twisting roads in rocky terrain may cause repeated speed up/slow down acceleration
which increases fuel consumption.
- Driving in snow increases fuel consumption because snow increases wheel slippage
and resistance to vehicle motion.
- Rough asphalt, pot-holes and gravel-surfaced roads can increase fuel consumption
up to 35 percent.
Vehicle load and condition
- Some vehicle options such as air conditioning or a loaded roof rack may be taken
into account during the laboratory tests but their effect on fuel consumption
can only be estimated. Additional options which add weight to a vehicle
(e.g. four-wheel drive) also increase the load on the vehicle engine, increasing
fuel consumption. The same holds true for extra passengers and additional weight
carried or towed.
- Proper vehicle maintenance helps to ensure proper fuel consumption. Low tire
pressure, incorrect wheel alignment, brake drag all contribute to increased
fuel consumption.
Driving style
- Short trips of 10-15 minutes without engine warm-up cause high fuel consumption
because the engine does not remain at its operating temperature for any significant
length of time.
- Quick accelerations, fast stops and excessive speed also result in higher fuel
consumption for the vehicle.
|
