What is ECO for?

[BrynleeLynn]

ECO is the car's economical driving mode, also known as the economy mode. When the vehicle frequently travels in congested urban road conditions, turning on the ECO mode can achieve good fuel-saving and energy-saving effects. Under the ECO mode, the engine carbon deposits are basically similar to those produced under normal operating conditions. The main principle of the ECO mode is not complicated. It mainly involves a comprehensive judgment and analysis of factors that affect fuel consumption during vehicle movement, such as automatic transmission gear position, engine speed, vehicle speed, braking, and transmission oil temperature. The ECU control unit calculates the appropriate amount of fuel to provide to the engine for work, effectively reducing fuel consumption compared to ordinary driving modes. Simply put, it controls the engine speed with reasonable gear positions to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption. ECO is an abbreviation, and its Chinese translations are Ecology (environmental protection), Conservation (energy saving), and Optimization (power). The ECO mode is further divided into active ECO driving mode and non-active ECO driving mode. When the ECO indicator light on the dashboard lights up, it means the vehicle's economy mode has been activated. The ECO mode is divided into active and non-active types. The difference is that the active type has its own button, allowing the owner to choose whether to turn it on. When the owner presses the ECO mode switch, the dashboard indicator light immediately lights up, and the vehicle automatically begins to adjust settings, such as throttle opening, transmission shift logic, and air conditioning output power. The non-active ECO mode does not have a dedicated button. When the ECO indicator light on the dashboard lights up, it is only a reminder function. The ECO mode automatically evaluates your driving behavior. If your current driving operation achieves the optimal fuel supply, the dashboard will simultaneously display the ECO indicator light. Most cars use the active ECO driving mode, which means they have their own switch buttons. Therefore, during daily driving, the ECO mode can be turned on. However, it is not necessary to turn on the ECO mode when the speed exceeds 120 mph, during idle parking, in N/P gear, or in manual mode, especially when climbing. Doing so would not reflect the fuel-saving characteristics of the ECO mode and could affect power. In addition, the ECO mode usually fails under the following circumstances: When the vehicle speed exceeds 120 kilometers per hour, the car will consider the speed, and the ECO mode automatically fails. During idle parking or in N/P gear and manual mode, the ECO mode may also fail. When a large torque output is required, such as when climbing, the engine computer will prioritize ensuring sufficient power to drive the vehicle, and the ECO mode will not work either.

[DeCora]

I've driven many cars and found that ECO mode is primarily designed for fuel efficiency, making the vehicle prioritize efficiency over performance during driving. When activated, the engine response slows down, acceleration becomes more gradual, and the air conditioning power may also be reduced to avoid fuel waste from aggressive throttle inputs. This is especially suitable for urban traffic congestion, where stop-and-go conditions can reduce fuel consumption by 15-20%. Using a mobile app to track data, I've saved hundreds of dollars on fuel costs over time while also reducing carbon emissions. Environmentalists would appreciate this, even though the driving dynamics feel weaker—once you get used to it, the ride feels smoother and safer. Occasionally activating it when not in a hurry, even the engine at idle becomes quieter. Overall, it optimizes energy usage, making daily commutes more sustainable.

[AugustFitz]

Stuck in traffic every day commuting to and from work, ECO mode has become my essential tool. It reduces fuel consumption by about 10% by controlling throttle sensitivity and transmission shift timing. I turn it on when driving in urban areas, making the car feel less aggressive with smoother acceleration. Although overtaking feels a bit sluggish, the money saved on fuel can treat me to a few extra meals each year. The reduced AC output makes the car a bit hotter in summer, but overall, the drive is quieter and safer. Actual tests show fuel consumption dropping from 7L to 6.5L per 100km, making it ideal for commuters. Long-term use also benefits the environment by reducing exhaust emissions. Don’t forget to check the settings to ensure they match the road conditions.

[DeDiana]

I find the ECO mode quite practical, with noticeable fuel savings in city driving. It alters driving behavior by optimizing the engine and systems to reduce fuel consumption. After activation, fuel efficiency improves slightly with slower power response—for instance, acceleration isn't as quick as usual. But my app shows the car's fuel consumption dropped from 8L/100km to 7.2L/100km, saving a fair amount daily. The effect is minimal on highways, so it might be better to turn it off. Reducing carbon emissions is another benefit, making it ideal for eco-conscious drivers. It's basically a one-touch activation, very convenient.