Catalytic Converters - Volvo XC60 Owner's Manual

Catalytic converters

The purpose of the catalytic converters is to
purify exhaust gases. They are located close to
the engine so that operating temperature is
reached quickly.
The catalytic converters consist of a monolith
(ceramic or metal) with channels. The channel
walls are lined with a thin layer of platinum/
rhodium/palladium. These metals act as cata-
lysts, i.e. they participate in and accelerate a
chemical reaction without being used up them-
selves.
TM
Lambda-sond oxygen sensor
The Lambda-sond is part of a control system
intended to reduce emissions and improve fuel
economy. For more information, see Fuel con-
sumption and CO2 emissions (p. 418).
An oxygen sensor monitors the oxygen content
of the exhaust gases leaving the engine. This
value is fed into an electronic system that contin-
uously controls the injectors. The ratio of fuel to
air directed to the engine is continuously
adjusted. These adjustments create optimal con-
ditions for efficient combustion, and together with
the three-way catalytic converter reduce harmful
emissions (hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and
nitrous oxides).
Related information
•
Fuel - petrol (p. 308)
•
Fuel - diesel (p. 308)
Economical driving
Drive economically and eco-consciously by driv-
ing smoothly, thinking ahead, and adjusting your
driving style and speed to the prevailing condi-
tions.
•
Use the ECO Guide* which indicates how
fuel-efficiently the car is being driven, see
Eco guide & Power guide* (p. 72).
•
Drive in the highest gear possible, adapted to
the current traffic situation and road - lower
STARTING AND DRIVING
engine speeds result in lower fuel consump-
tion. Use the gear indicator (p. 281)
•
Drive at a steady speed and keep a good dis-
tance to other vehicles and objects to mini-
mise braking.
•
High speed results in increased fuel con-
sumption - the wind resistance increases
with speed.
•
Do not run the engine to operating tempera-
ture at idling speed, but rather drive with a
normal load right after starting - a cold
engine consumes more fuel than a warm
one.
•
Drive with the correct air pressure in the
tyres and check this regularly - select ECO
tyre pressure for best results, see Tyres -
approved tyre pressures (p. 421).
•
Choice of tyres can affect fuel consumption -
seek advice on suitable tyres from a dealer.
•
Do not use winter tyres when the winter sea-
son is over.
•
Remove unnecessary items from the car -
the greater the load the higher the fuel con-
sumption.
•
Use engine braking to slow down, when it
can take place without risk to other road
users.
* Option/accessory, for more information, see Introduction.
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