Protecting The Environment - MG ZR Series Owner's Manual

PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT

Environmental Driving
Environmental issues are increasingly influencing our lives, and the
motor car is sometimes seen as a major source of air pollution.
In a great many respects, however, criticism of the car and its
manufacturer is misplaced, for few industries have done more to
reduce pollution than the motor industry. MG Rover is no
exception. Your car has been designed with the latest technology
in order to minimise the environmental impact of exhaust
emissions. Even so, any further reduction in emissions is in
everyone's interest and, to this end, there are a number of ways in
which you, the owner, can also make a contribution.
Starting the engine
Although it is a common perception that cars should be 'warmed
up' before being driven, this is not the case.
The majority of poisonous emissions are produced immediately
following a cold start and in the period while the engine is
warming up. Because the car warms up much faster while it is
being driven, it is less harmful to the environment to drive away
immediately after starting rather than to allow the engine to idle.
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Environmental Driving
Driving style
The way in which you drive your car has a significant bearing on
environmental pollution, as well as affecting the amount of fuel
you use:
• Avoid full throttle acceleration
Steady, rather than rapid, acceleration uses considerably less
fuel, reduces exhaust pollutants and also minimises the wear to
mechanical components.
• Avoid driving at maximum speed
Fuel consumption, exhaust emissions and noise levels all
increase significantly at high speeds. For example, travelling at
100 km/h uses up to 20 per cent less fuel than driving at
112 km/h.
• Do not drive in a low gear for longer than necessary
Driving in lower gears uses more fuel and creates more noise.
Change up to a higher gear as soon as possible, provided it does
NOT cause the engine to labour.
• Drive smoothly
Anticipating obstructions and slowing down well in advance,
avoids the need for unnecessary acceleration and harsh braking.
A smooth driving style not only reduces fuel consumption, but
can reduce the emission of poisonous gases by two thirds or
more.
• Switch off the engine when waiting in traffic
When it is obvious that the car will be stationary for several
minutes or more, and provided it is safe to do so, switch off the
engine. The impact on the environment of starting the engine
again will be less than the effect of allowing the engine to idle
for 45 seconds or more.