Eco-driving

In this perspective, Manufacturing Insights analyzes the significant pressures that the automotive industry has to deal with due to environmental compliance, particularly in Europe.

The report analyzes the integrated approach that ACEA (European Automobile Manufacturers' Association) suggests should be considered in supporting the goal of reducing the level of CO₂ emissions connected with vehicles. In particular, Manufacturing Insights focuses attention on the so-called "eco-driving" approach, in which the driver has a relevant role in the CO₂-saving process, through better driving styles. According to ACEA, a trained eco-driver can save up to 25% fuel consumption and related CO₂ emissions.

Fiat Group Automobiles is the first automaker to actively exploit a way to embed eco-driving principles in its products. The company recently released an IT application called "eco:Drive", based on Adobe AIR, which is able to analyze driving style data downloaded directly from the car. The IT application is aimed at helping Fiat's customers limit fuel consumption while reducing CO₂ emissions.