5 Eco-Friendly Driving Tips

A huge portion of our greenhouse gas emissions come from the transportation sector. And while a lot of that can be attributed to diesel-electric trains and our fleets of semi-trucks, regular drivers contribute their share of pollution as well. The good news is that you don’t need to shell out a lot of money for a hybrid car or limit your range by buying an electric vehicle, in order to reduce your impact on the environment. You just need to incorporate some simple, green driving tips.

Tip #1: Use A GPS App

While there will always be naysayers when it comes to GPS programs, there’s no denying they get you where you want to go quickly and efficiently. Not only that, but modern smartphone apps update your route in real-time, making sure you avoid traffic jams, road construction, and other obstacles that will leave you idling and burning fuel you could otherwise be using to reach your final destination.

Tip #2: Avoid Stop and Go Traffic

If your car is running at a steady pace, then you’re burning less fuel, and getting the most out of your mileage. If you’re constantly hitting the brakes, coming to a stop, and then stamping on the gas to get back up to speed again, then you’re burning through more gas than you probably want to think about. Instead, trying to pick routes that will let you set the cruise control and just ride. In addition to hitting the highway instead of local roads, though, it’s a good idea to choose your travel times whenever you can. There’s a reason so many over-the-road truckers will drive through the early hours of the morning; because no one else is on the road, getting in their way.

Tip #3: Get An Electronic Toll

Paying tolls is an unfortunate necessity that comes with using many of our interstate highways. However, rather than stopping every half-dozen miles to throw some change into a bin, you can now get electronic toll readers. These devices are picked up by overhead sensors, meaning that you pay your tolls automatically and you never have to so much as tap the brake. Which translates to better travel time and better fuel efficiency, which means there’s less poison spewing out of your tailpipe when all is said and done.

Tip #4: Don’t Warm Up Your Car

It’s a winter tradition that you need to let your car run for a while before you drive off. IAnd, in the days when getting 15 miles to the gallon was seen as fuel-efficient, that was probably the case. However, thanks to advances in technology, you don’t need to give your car a chance to psych itself up for a drive in the cold. As soon as you hit the ignition and the engine turns over, it’s ready to go. Don’t let your car idle, pumping out emissions when you could be using that fuel to get where you’re going.

Tip #5: Get Your Regular Check-Ups

A car that’s regularly maintained will operate closer to peak efficiency than one which isn’t. Everything from keeping the tires aired up, to changing the spark plugs on time, has an effect on your fuel efficiency. Even changing the oxygen sensor can have a big impact on how efficient your vehicle is. So, while it might seem like a huge pain in the rear, as well as a hundred little bites to your bank account, make sure you keep up with your scheduled maintenance.

For more ways you can live a cleaner, greener life, simply contact us today!

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