How to save fuel in cold weather

Cold weather and driving in winter conditions can greatly increase the fuel consumption of a vehicle. The test fuel economy shows that in the urban cycle, the difference in consumption of gasoline at ambient temperatures of -7 °C and +25 °C, reaching 12%. And for short trips (5-7 miles), this figure could increase to 22%. For hybrid vehicles the situation is even worse. Their consumption in such conditions could increase by 31%-34%.





Why is the gasoline consumption in winter is higher?

Cold weather affects vehicle more than you might expect:

• The friction parts of the engine and transmission is enhanced at low temperatures due to the reduction of the gap between the parts and the high viscosity of the engine oil and other fluids at low temperatures.
• Engine warm up to optimal temperature, it takes longer. This is especially true for short trips, since the engine most of the trip has a temperature below the optimum.
• Heated seats, Windows and mirrors, fans, heating use extra power.
• Warming up the car before driving also reduces fuel economy. During this period, the ratio of distance traveled to fuel consumed is zero.
• More dense cold air increases the aerodynamic drag of the vehicle, especially at high speeds.
• At low temperatures, the tire pressure decreases, increasing the rolling resistance.
• Winter grades of gasoline can have slightly smaller value of intensity than the summer.
• The performance of batteries is reduced in cold weather, which makes charging them more difficult for the generator. It also affects the performance of regenerative braking system for hybrid vehicles.
• Ice or snow-covered roads reduce tire adhesion, which leads to unnecessary waste of energy.
• Safe speed driving on slippery roads is much lower than usual. This further increases fuel consumption, especially at speeds below 50-60 km/h.
• The use of all-wheel drive increases the consumption of gasoline.

What you can do for fuel economy in cold weather?Completely neutralize the impact of cold weather on the consumption of gasoline is unlikely to succeed, but a few simple things will help to reduce negative effect:

• In cold weather leave the car overnight in the garage. This will allow the engine to cool to outside temperature at the time of launch.
• If possible, combine trips to drive less when the engine is cold.
• Don't warm up the car engine at idle. Most manufacturers recommend to start the smooth movement in about 30 seconds. The engine will warm up faster when cruising. But do not allow excessive engine rpm, it could damage him.
• Do not use the seat heating or ventilation more than necessary.
• Check the tire pressure.
• Use the oil recommended by the manufacturer for cold weather.
• Vehicle accessories that increase wind resistance, like roof racks when not needed.
• In hybrid cars or electric cars, the inclusion of heated seats when the charger is connected can extend the battery life. published
  
  P. S. And remember, only by changing their consumption — together we change the world! © Join us at Facebook , Vkontakte, Odnoklassniki
  
  

Source: portal-energo.ru/articles/details/id/906