Downhill Gradients - Mercedes-Benz SL SERIES Operator's Manual

Driving tips
176
Accel. (evaluation of all acceleration pro-
R
cesses):
The bar fills up: moderate acceleration,
-
especially at higher speeds
The bar empties: sporty acceleration
-
Constant (assessment of driving behavior
R
at all times):
The bar fills up: constant speed and
-
avoidance of unnecessary acceleration
and deceleration
The bar empties: fluctuations in speed
-
Coasting (assessment of all deceleration
R
processes):
The bar fills up: anticipatory driving,
-
keeping your distance and early release
of the accelerator. The vehicle can coast
without use of the brakes.
The bar empties: frequent braking
-
i
An economical driving style specially
requires driving at moderate engine
speeds.
To achieve a higher value in the categories
Acceleration
observe the gearshift recommendations.
R
drive in drive program E.
R
i
On long journeys at a constant speed, e.g.
on the highway, only the bar for
will change.
i
The ECO display summarizes the driving
characteristics from the start of the journey
to its completion. For this reason, the bars
change dynamically at the beginning of the
journey. On longer journeys, there are
fewer changes. For more dynamic changes,
carry out a manual reset.
For more information on the ECO display, see
( page 226).
Y
and Constant:
Constant
Brakes
Important safety notes
G WARNING
If you shift down on a slippery road surface in
an attempt to increase the engine's braking
effect, the drive wheels could lose their grip.
There is an increased danger of skidding and
accidents.
Do not shift down for additional engine brak-
ing on a slippery road surface.

Downhill gradients

! On long, steep gradients, you must
reduce the load on the brakes. To use
engine braking, shift to a lower gear in good
time. This helps you to avoid overheating
the brakes and wearing them out exces-
sively.
When making use of the engine braking
effect, it is possible that a drive wheel may
not turn for some time, e.g. in the case of
suddenly changing or slippery road surface
conditions. This could cause damage to the
drive train. This type of damage is not cov-
ered by the Mercedes-Benz warranty.
Change into a lower gear in good time on long
and steep downhill gradients. This is espe-
cially important if the vehicle is laden.
This also applies if you have activated cruise
control, SPEEDTRONIC or DISTRONIC PLUS.
Heavy and light loads
G WARNING
If you rest your foot on the brake pedal while
driving, the braking system can overheat. This
increases the stopping distance and can even
cause the braking system to fail. There is a
risk of an accident.
Never use the brake pedal as a footrest. Never
depress the brake pedal and the accelerator
pedal at the same time.