What does ECON mean on a car?

[DeSamantha]

ECON is the switch for the car's fuel-saving mode, which can be turned on or off with this button. Modern cars generally offer three driving modes to choose from: Eco mode, Comfort mode, and Sport mode. Here is information about these three modes: Eco 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 Eco mode. Sport mode: This 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 will only upshift once the engine speed reaches the redline. After switching to Sport mode, the engine speed remains around 3,000 RPM, ensuring better power response during acceleration. Activating ECON mode helps reduce fuel consumption and save energy, but it may weaken the car's power. ECON can be understood as an abbreviation for "economy." It is generally recommended to keep ECON mode on in most situations, except when high torque output is required (e.g., climbing a hill) or when driving at very high speeds, in which case ECON mode should be turned off. Pressing the ECON button activates a low-carbon, eco-friendly driving mode. The ECU, engine, and transmission then operate intelligently in the most fuel-efficient manner, achieving optimal fuel economy through quick upshifts and smooth acceleration. The air conditioning system also enters an energy-saving state. When the driver presses the throttle pedal deeply, the ECON system effectively controls the opening and closing of the intake valves to ensure smooth engine operation and energy efficiency. Although the ECO mode is simple and effective, it may not function under certain conditions: When the vehicle speed exceeds 120 km/h, priority is given to speed, and the fuel-saving mode automatically deactivates. This means that if the car exceeds the economical speed range (typically between 60-90 km/h), the ECO mode will not save fuel. The key to ECO mode is the independent operation of the car's computer during driving. Therefore, it does not work when idling, in neutral (N), park (P), or manual modes. When overcoming significant resistance or requiring high torque output, such as when climbing a hill, the ECU prioritizes delivering sufficient power to drive the car, and the ECO mode will not function.

[McAlejandro]

When I first bought the car, I noticed the ECON button next to the steering wheel. Out of curiosity, I asked the salesperson and learned that it stands for Economy Mode, simply put, it's for fuel saving. When activated, the system automatically adjusts the engine output to make it less aggressive, with slower throttle response, and the air conditioning also reduces power consumption to cut unnecessary energy use. I've tested it in traffic jams; using ECON in the city can reduce fuel consumption by 8-10%, allowing you to go further on a full tank and save a lot on fuel costs, making it ideal for daily commuting. However, you might feel it lacks power during rapid acceleration, as the speed doesn't pick up quickly. If you often speed on highways, turning it off might be better, but for normal driving, it really helps a lot.