Looking Ahead; Economical Gear Changing - Skoda Rapid Owner's Manual

The technical requirements for low fuel usage and economic efficiency of the ve-
hicle have already been built into the vehicle at the works. ŠKODA places a partic-
ular emphasis on minimising negative effects on the environment.
It is necessary to take note of the guidelines given in this chapter in order to
make best use of these characteristics and to maintain their effectiveness.
Fuel consumption, environmental pollution and wear to the engine, brakes and
tyres depend essentially on the following three factors:
›
your personal driving style.
›
operating conditions.
›
technical requirements.
The fuel economy by can be improved by 10 -15 % by always looking ahead and
driving in an economical way.
Fuel consumption is also be influenced by external factors which are beyond the
driver's control. Consumption increases during the winter or under difficult condi-
tions, on poor roads, etc.
Fuel consumption can vary considerably from the manufacturer's data, as a result
of outside temperatures, weather and driving style.
Such an engine speed should be adhered to when accelerating, in order to avoid a
high fuel consumption and resonance of the vehicle.
CAUTION
All the speed and engine revolution figures apply only when the engine is at its
normal operating temperature.

Looking ahead


First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 100.
A vehicle's highest fuel consumption occurs when accelerating, therefore unnec-
essary accelerating and braking should be avoided. If looking ahead when driving,
less braking and consequently less accelerating are required.
If possible, let your vehicle coast to a stop, or use the engine brake, if you can see
that the next set of traffic lights is on red, for example.

Economical gear changing


First read and observe the introductory information and safety warn-
ings on page 100.
Shifting up early saves on fuel.
Manual gearbox
›
Drive no more than about one length of your vehicle in first gear.
›
Shift up into the next gear at approx. 2000 rpm.
An effective way of achieving good fuel economy is to shift up early. Observe the
recommended gear » page 22, Gear recommendation.
A suitably selected gear can have an effect on fuel consumption
Automatic gearbox
›

Slowly apply the accelerator pedal. However, do not depress it to the kickdown
position.
›
An economic driving programme is automatically selected if the accelerator ped-
al is only depressed slowly.

Fig. 95
Principle sketch: Fuel consump-
tion in litres/100 km depending
on the selected gear
» Fig. 95.
101
Starting-off and Driving
