Eco-Driving

• The fuel consumption of a vehicle depends heavily on how it is driven. Abrupt acceleration and deceleration cause a vehicle to burn more fuel and put stress on the engine, tires, and suspension system, causing those parts to wear out prematurely.
• Reduce Idling time. According to Argonne National Laboratory, idling for more than 10 seconds uses more fuel and emits more carbon dioxide than restarting the engine. Some idling (such as at traffic lights or in slow-moving traffic) is unavoidable, but vehicles can be turned off while waiting if they shall idle for more than 10 seconds. 1 hour of idle time wastes approximately 1 gallon of gas. Commercial vehicles are especially wasteful as they are prone to idling while deliveries are made. IdleBox is a toolkit of print products, templates, presentations, and information resources to assist light- and medium-duty vehicle fleets with idle-reduction projects. IdleBox tools can be used to educate and engage policymakers, fleet managers, drivers, and other decision-makers about the benefits of reducing idling.
• Some vehicle manufacturers install eco-mode settings in their cars, which drivers can enable to reduce the consumption of electricity and achieve a more energy-efficient operation. Eco mode works by doing things like limiting the torque of the motors, controlling cruise speeds, and automatically adjusting climate control and lighting systems. Eco-Driving training makes these behaviors regular habits regardless of the vehicle driven.
• Avoid speeding – gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph.
• Keep your car well-maintained – low tire pressure can reduce fuel economy.
• Make your car as aerodynamic as possible. A bulky roof-top cargo box, for example, can reduce fuel economy by as much as 8% during city driving and by up to 25% at interstate speeds

The transportation sector is one of the most significant contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. WCC believes that one of the most effective and immediate means to achieve carbon emission reduction goals is unleashing the untapped human factor controlling vehicle emissions, the Eco-Driver. Vehicles have not driven themselves yet, so taking action now with current gas vehicles and Eco-Driver training is better than doing nothing and waiting for cleaner vehicles to arrive later. Drivers are among the most expensive assets in any industry, yet they have not yet been utilized to their full potential. Eco-Driving can change that.

WCC believes that any driver, given proper training, incentives, motivation, and encouragement, will want to be part of the climate change solution and achieve financial savings, both on the job and at home. WCC wishes to help unleash the hidden talents and ambitions that will make better workers, drivers, and community members. If a driver is asked to operate new technology and cleaner vehicles, a trained, motivated Eco-Driver can accomplish much more toward achieving financial and environmental goals than an average, untrained driver. An Eco-Driver will grow in self-confidence, well-being, and personal accomplishment, knowing they have unique skills that will make a difference to the employer, family, community, country, and the world, now and for future generations.