Fuel Economy Driving 195
Driving Habits
The way in which a vehicle is being driven
is the one factor which has the greatest in-
fluence on fuel consumption. Correct
driving saves fuel and reduces vehicle wear.
To achieve optimal running economy, the
driver should always remember to:
•
Start the engine correctly (especially
important in winter season)
•
Maintain an even and correct speed
•
Keep the engine at its optimum speed
range
•
Use the correct uphill and downhill
driving technique.
Starting the Engine
Start the engine according to the instruc-
tions in the Operator’s Manual of the
engine manufacturer (for a Volvo engine,
see page 198). A proper start, especially
during the cold season, saves fuel and re-
duces engine wear.
Sluggish lube oil in the engine makes cold
starting more difficult. Therefore, it is im-
portant to always use engine oil with the
correct viscosity. (For the sake of the over-
all fuel economy, it is also important to
have the right viscosity of transmission and
rear axle oils.)