Fiat eco:Drive
Complex fuel-saving technology is all very well, but everyone knows that the key to achieving good economy in any car is the driver. That’s why we couldn’t ignore Fiat’s clever eco:Drive computer application this year.
Why it won...
Complex fuel-saving technology is all very well, but everyone knows that the key to achieving good economy in any car is the driver. That’s why we couldn’t ignore Fiat’s clever eco:Drive computer application this year.
Using the manufacturer’s Blue&Me USB interface, it allows motorists to download telemetry from their vehicle, just like a Formula One racer does – only the aim is to help the driver improve their efficiency rather than their pace. The free set-up is already being used by more than 40,000 Fiat owners and is credited with saving a staggering 910,000kg-plus of CO2.
The eco:Drive software supplies a stream of information, and measures everything from fuel economy to CO2 emissions to calculate your economy index. It then provides helpful advice on how to improve your score and sets you a target for your next download. Bosses at the Italian manufacturer claim that improvements of up to 15 per cent are possible using the system, simply by changing motorists’ habits behind the wheel.
The innovative product is designed to improve economy and reduce CO2 output. They are noble objectives in themselves, but the system also helps to cut fuel bills – and in the current economic climate, that’s something everyone can appreciate.
