Reducing fuel consumption and emissions in urban areas by using a new fuel-efficiency support tool

Road transport still depends almost entirely on liquid fuels derived from natural
oil. Combustion of these carbon-based fuels naturally results in the emission of
carbon monoxide and dioxide, which play an important role in global warming.
Improving fuel-efficiency through a change in driver behaviour can effectively
reduce fuel consumption and corresponding emissions. Since fuel consumption is most substantial in urban areas, the largest gain is likely to be obtained here.
A new-generation fuel-efficiency support tool has been designed that aims at
reducing fuel consumption by inducing a change in driver behaviour. The support tool includes a normative model that formulates optimal driver behaviour in this respect based on the context the vehicle is in. If actual behaviour deviates from optimal behaviour, the support tool presents advice to the driver on how to change driver behaviour.
Evaluation of the new advice system took place in a driving simulator as well
as on the road. The advice system has proven to be particularly effective in the
urban environment; an average reduction in fuel consumption of 20 percent was
achieved. Mainly an altered gear choice and quicker gear changing caused this
reduction. In addition drivers learned to anticipate more to oncoming traffic
situations.
Supporting drivers to adapt their driving behaviour therefore results in a
significant reduction of fuel consumption and therewith carbon dioxide emission. The willingness to adapt driving behaviour will be consolidated by lower fuel costs on drivers' behalf.