What does ECON mean in Chinese?
3 Answers
The Chinese meaning of ECON is economy, which can be understood as the abbreviation of 'economy.' ECON refers to the car's fuel-saving mode switch, which can turn the fuel-saving mode on or off. Modern cars generally offer three driving modes to choose from: fuel-saving mode, comfort mode, and sport mode. Below is information about these three modes: Fuel-saving mode: When the car is in this mode, fuel consumption is relatively low. The throttle pedal sensitivity decreases, and the transmission shifts up more aggressively. Comfort mode: This mode is considered a normal operating mode for the car. In this mode, the throttle pedal response is more sensitive than in fuel-saving mode. Sport mode: Sport mode can be used during aggressive driving. When sport mode is activated, the throttle pedal response becomes very sensitive, and the transmission delays shifting. The transmission only upshifts when the engine speed reaches the redline. After switching to sport mode, the engine speed is maintained at around 3,000 RPM, ensuring better power response during acceleration. When the car enters ECON mode, it achieves reduced fuel consumption and energy savings, but the car's power output weakens. In most cases, it is recommended to keep ECON mode on. Only when high torque output is needed (e.g., when climbing a hill) or when driving at very high speeds should ECON mode be turned off. After pressing the ECON button, the car enters a low-carbon, eco-friendly driving mode. The ECU, engine, and transmission then operate in the most fuel-efficient way to execute the driver's intentions, achieving optimal fuel economy through rapid upshifts and smooth acceleration. The air conditioning system also operates in an energy-saving state. When the driver presses the accelerator pedal deeply, the ECON system effectively controls the opening and closing of the intake valves to ensure smooth engine operation and energy efficiency. Although ECO mode is simple and effective to operate, it does not work under certain conditions: When the vehicle speed exceeds 120 km/h, priority is given to speed, and the fuel-saving mode automatically deactivates. In other words, if the speed exceeds the economical range (typically between 60–90 km/h), ECO mode will not save fuel. The key to ECO mode is the independent operation of the car's computer during driving to make it effective. Therefore, when idling, parked, or in N, P, or manual mode, ECO does not function. When overcoming significant resistance and requiring high torque output (e.g., when climbing a hill), the ECU prioritizes ensuring sufficient power to drive the car, in which case ECO will not work.
In the automotive field, 'econ' typically refers to the economy mode, a common button on the dashboard. Pressing it switches the car to an energy-saving state. With over a decade of driving experience, I've noticed that activating econ mode can reduce fuel consumption by about 10%. The principle mainly involves reducing air conditioning cooling intensity, making gear shifts smoother, and limiting unnecessary power output. The effect is most noticeable when using air conditioning in summer—the car may feel a bit sluggish, but it's particularly fuel-efficient for long-distance driving. It's important to note that it's best to turn it off when climbing hills or carrying heavy loads, as excessive engine load can actually increase fuel consumption. Regular use of this mode also helps reduce emissions, making it environmentally friendly.
ECON is essentially the economy driving mode, which the salesperson specifically taught me when I bought the car. After pressing the green leaf icon on the center console, the system automatically softens the throttle response, and the air conditioning won't run at full cooling capacity, allowing a full tank of gas to last dozens of kilometers longer. The best part is using ECON in traffic jams—stop-and-go driving doesn't cause fuel consumption to skyrocket, and the engine noise becomes much quieter. However, I'd remind beginners not to use this mode when overtaking on highways, as the delayed power response could be dangerous. Nowadays, most new cars come with this feature, and making it a habit can really save a lot on fuel costs.
