car expertTraffic jams lead to significantly higher fuel consumption for many cars. Reader Priscilla van Tienen wonders why that is. Our car expert Niek Schenk provides the answer.
Ask: ‘I wonder why my car always has higher fuel consumption in traffic jams. I really notice a big difference.’
Auto editor Niek Schenk answers: ‘A fuel car indeed uses more petrol or diesel when driving in traffic jams than when driving at cruising speed. This has everything to do with having to accelerate and brake again and again during traffic jams. During acceleration, the engine has to work hard to get the weight moving and reach the desired driving speed. Once a car is rolling, it uses much less energy. A constant driving speed is in any case better for fuel consumption. That is why driving with cruise control can help a car to drive more economically.’
‘By the way, electric cars are less affected by extra energy consumption during traffic jams. Although they also need extra power to accelerate, they gain new energy when braking in traffic jams, thanks to the braking technology: energy is released when braking and it is stored in the battery pack. Electric cars are specially designed for this.’
Our car editor Niek Schenk answers reader questions every week. Email your question to [email protected]
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