How to Use ECO Mode?
4 Answers
Eco mode is divided into active eco driving mode and passive eco driving mode. The difference between the two is that the active mode has a dedicated button, while the passive mode does not have a dedicated button and only serves as a reminder or guide. Below is a related introduction about ECO mode: 1. When to use it: Most cars use the active eco driving mode, which means they have an independent switch button. You can turn on the eco mode during daily driving, except when the speed exceeds 120 km/h, during idle parking, in N/P gear, or in manual mode, especially when climbing a hill. In these situations, there is no need to turn on the eco mode, as it would not reflect the economic and fuel-saving characteristics of eco and could affect the vehicle's power performance. 2. The eco mode usually becomes ineffective under the following conditions: (1) When the vehicle speed exceeds 120 km/h, the car will prioritize speed, and the eco mode will automatically deactivate. (2) During idle parking or in N/P gear or manual mode, the eco mode may also become ineffective. (3) When a large torque output is needed, such as when climbing a hill, the engine's computer will prioritize ensuring sufficient power to drive the vehicle, and the eco mode will not work.
I usually drive in ECO mode when stuck in city traffic, and it does feel more fuel-efficient. After starting the vehicle, simply press the green leaf button on the center console, and the ECO indicator will light up on the dashboard. At this time, the throttle response becomes slightly slower, and the air conditioning won't blast cold air aggressively. The key is to maintain a steady speed and avoid frequent hard acceleration or braking, as that can actually waste fuel. On highways, I usually turn it off since power is more important for overtaking. After using this mode for half a year, my fuel consumption has dropped by about 8%.
Last time I test-drove a new energy vehicle, the salesperson taught me how to use ECO mode like this: After powering on the vehicle, first press the brake pedal, then press the start button before releasing the handbrake, followed by pressing the ECO button on the center console to activate the energy-saving mode. The system automatically controls the energy recovery intensity, and the drag sensation is very noticeable when you lift off the accelerator. At this point, pay attention to the tachometer needle—as long as the needle stays within the ECO zone, it means the energy recovery is working. I specifically tested it, and driving with ECO mode on the entire trip can extend the range by an additional 20 kilometers.
Driving a manual transmission car with ECO mode requires some techniques. Starting in second gear after ignition can save fuel, and maintaining the engine speed between 1500-2000 RPM is the most economical. When going downhill, coast in gear as the fuel injectors will stop supplying fuel. Remember to turn off high-power electrical devices, as seat heaters consume a lot of electricity. I always reset the fuel consumption meter after each full tank, and with ECO mode, I can usually drive around 650 kilometers in the city.
