What does the ECO display on a car mean?

[StMason]

When the dashboard displays ECO, it indicates that the vehicle has entered the economy mode. ECO stands for the car's economic driving mode function. It is an English abbreviation derived from the combination of Ecology (environmental protection), Conservation (energy saving), and Optimization (power). The Eco mode is further divided into passive eco driving mode and active eco driving mode. Eco mode is categorized into active and passive types. The difference lies in the fact that the active type has its own dedicated button, allowing the driver to choose whether to activate it. When the driver presses the Eco mode switch, the dashboard indicator light will illuminate, and the vehicle will automatically begin adjusting settings such as throttle opening, transmission shift logic, and air conditioning output power. The passive Eco mode does not have a dedicated button. When the dashboard Eco indicator light comes on, it serves merely as a reminder function. The Eco system automatically evaluates driving behavior. If the current driving operation achieves the optimal fuel supply, the dashboard will simultaneously display the Eco indicator light. Most vehicles employ the active Eco driving mode, which means they have their own switch button. Therefore, the Eco mode can be activated during daily driving. However, it is unnecessary to engage the Eco mode when the speed exceeds 120 km/h, during idle parking, in N/P gear, or in manual mode—especially when climbing a hill—as it would not reflect the fuel-saving characteristics of the Eco mode. In addition, the Eco mode typically becomes ineffective under the following circumstances: When the vehicle speed exceeds 120 km/h, the car prioritizes speed, and the Eco mode automatically deactivates. During idle parking or when in N/P gear or manual mode, the Eco mode may also become ineffective. When high torque output is required, such as during hill climbing, the engine control unit prioritizes ensuring sufficient power to drive the vehicle, and the Eco mode will not function.