Start/Stop systems: The perfect complement for efficient driving
Start/Stop engines are becoming more and more present in affordable cars. What was once seen as a luxury for some top-of-the-range models, this technology is making it easier for drivers to save on fuel and minimise the carbon emissions their motor produces.
A Start/Stop system shuts down the internal combustion engine once the car has come to a halt. This could be at traffic lights, railway crossings, motorway jams, or when waiting to pick a friend or family member up. This is achieved by pressing down the clutch and putting the car in neutral.
This stops the engine from idling, which can be a drain on fuel and can cause unnecessary fuel emissions.
When the foot is pressed to the clutch again and a gear is selected, the engine starts up again, allowing you to move away with ease.
It's a simple yet effective way to give you more from the fuel you put into your car and helps you to decrease the impact your vehicle has on the environment.
A number of affordable cars now feature this innovative system, as manufacturers place increased emphasis on cutting emissions.
The Nissan Juke is just one example of an affordable car with the energy-saving technology included.
It is the latest in crossover design from Nissan, following hot in the footsteps of the new Qashqai - another model that features Start/Stop.
The Juke was recently unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show and features a 1.2 DIG-T turbocharged petrol engine. Using the Start/Stop feature, the car only emits 126g/km of CO2.
It is also available in the new Citroen C1. The city car comes with an efficient e-VTi 68 engine matched to a five-speed gearbox.
The addition of Start/Stop makes the model one of the best in its class for fuel consumption, helped by excellent aerodynamics and a low body weight.
It's not a feature limited to consumer cars either, as commercial vehicles also benefit from it. The Volkswagen Caddy for example makes use of the feature for more efficient business driving.
The latest Caddy is more aerodynamic than its predecessor and comes with improved torque and greater driving range. It consumes just 4.5 litres every 100km, meaning just 117g/km of CO2 are emitted.
Posted by Louise Clark