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This guide summarises the most important Dutch theory points for eco driving: fuel saving, smooth driving,
start-stop, tyre pressure, early upshifting, and smart use of cruise control.
Key rules in 60 seconds
Drive smooth, not fast
- Keep a steady speed and avoid unnecessary braking and accelerating.
- Look far ahead and anticipate so you can lift off early instead of braking late.
Shift up early (low rpm, high gear)
- Use a higher gear early and drive at low rpm without labouring the engine.
- Aim for low rpm, high gear, steady throttle—avoid engine “lugging”.
Don’t idle to “warm up”
- Drive off immediately and gently; idling wastes fuel.
Start-stop system
- Switches the engine off when stationary to save fuel in stop-and-go traffic.
- Restarts automatically when you drive off.
Tyre pressure matters
- Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance → higher fuel use and more wear.
- Check pressure regularly, especially before long trips or heavy loads.
Cruise control (and ACC)
- Helps keep speed constant, reducing unnecessary speed changes (but stay alert).
- ACC can maintain distance, but you remain responsible for safe driving.
Detailed guide
Eco driving habits (exam-focused)
Driving off and accelerating
- Accelerate briskly but smoothly, then shift up early.
- Reach your desired speed without aggressive “flooring” the pedal.
Constant speed = less fuel
- Maintain a steady speed where possible.
- Avoid repeated overtaking and speed swings (they cost fuel and reduce safety margins).
Anticipate and coast
- If you expect to slow down: release the accelerator early and let the car roll in gear.
- Avoid shifting down too early; avoid coasting with the clutch pressed (less control).
Start-stop system
A start-stop system reduces fuel use by switching the engine off when you are stationary (for example at traffic lights). The engine restarts automatically when you drive off.
- Most effective in stop-and-go city traffic.
- In some situations (manoeuvring, very short stops, heavy traffic) behaviour can differ by car.
Cruise control
Cruise control keeps a steady speed set by the driver.
- Benefits: steadier speed → fewer speed changes → often better fuel economy.
- Less speed “creep” → fewer unnecessary braking moments.
- Exam trap: it can reduce active speed monitoring—always adapt to traffic, weather and visibility.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
ACC automatically adjusts speed to the vehicle in front to maintain distance. It helps keep traffic flow smoother, but you remain responsible for safe driving.
Tyres: pressure and fuel consumption
Underinflation increases rolling resistance and fuel use, and it also increases wear and blowout risk. Check tyre pressure regularly (especially before long trips or heavy loads).
Gear shifting (rule of thumb)
You can save fuel by shifting up early and driving at low rpm in a higher gear. Typical ranges (general guidance—follow your manual):
- Diesel: shift around 1,500–2,500 rpm.
- Petrol: shift around 2,000–3,000 rpm.
- Aim for low rpm, high gear, steady throttle; avoid engine “lugging”.
Energy label (when buying a car)
Energy labels show fuel consumption, CO₂ emissions and economy class. They compare cars within the same size/class, so always consider vehicle type and real-world use.
Common mistakes to avoid
- “Eco driving means letting everyone go first” (it doesn’t).
- Warming up the engine by idling.
- Driving too close (forces more braking and wastes fuel).
- Underinflated tyres.
- Using cruise control and switching off attention.
FAQ
Low tyre pressure increases rolling resistance and fuel use.
Shift up early; typical ranges: petrol 2,000–3,000 rpm, diesel 1,500–2,500 rpm.
Yes—especially in city traffic, by stopping the engine when stationary.
Steady speed, gentle inputs, anticipate early, and coast in gear where appropriate.
Relevant Dutch law (high-level references)
- RVV 1990 & WVW 1994: general traffic rules and road safety duty of care.