Introduction
9
Reducing environmental impact
You can help reduce environmental impact,
for example, by driving economically, by pur-
chasing eco-labelled car care products and
by servicing and maintaining the car accord-
ing to the instructions in the owner’s manual.
The following hints will help you to do your bit
for the environment:
• Decrease fuel consumption by choosing
ECO tyre pressure, see page 148.
• A roof load and ski box increase air resist-
ance, leading to significantly higher fuel
consumption. Remove them immediately
after use.
• Remove unnecessary items from the car.
The greater the load the higher the fuel
consumption.
• If the car is equipped with an engine block
heater use it for a few hours before start-
ing from cold. This reduces fuel consump-
tion and exhaust emissions.
• Drive gently and avoid braking too hard.
• Drive in the highest gear
possible. Low engine
speeds result in lower fuel
consumption.
• Ease back on the acceler-
ator on downhill gradi-
ents.
• Use engine braking to slow down.
• Avoid idling. Take consideration of local
regulations. Switch off the engine in traffic
queues.
• Always dispose of envi-
ronmentally hazardous
waste, such as batteries
and oils, in an environ
-
mentally safe manner. If
uncertain about disposal,
consult an authorised
Volvo workshop for advice.
• Service your car regularly.
These hints will help you reduce fuel con-
sumption without increasing travel time or
lessening the enjoyment of driving. Apart
from being kind to your car, you’ll be saving
money - and the Earth’s resources.
