Lancia Delta, Owner'S Handbook Manual

Page: 172 / 276

STARTING UP AND DRIVING
171
3
Accessories fitted on longitudinal bars
Remove any accessories such as: longitudinal bars, ski
racks, luggage rack, from the roof if they are not being
used. These accessories decrease aerodynamic penetration
and have a negative effect on fuel consumption. It is bet-
ter to use a trailer to transport particularly bulky objects.
Electrical devices
Use electrical devices only for the amount of time needed.
The heated rear windscreen, additional headlights, wind-
screen wipers and heater fan need a considerable amount
of energy; increasing the requirement of current increas-
es fuel consumption (up to +25% in the urban cycle).
Climate control
The climate control system leads to higher fuel consump-
tion (up to +20% on average): use air vents only when the
external temperature allows.
Spoilers
The use of non-certified aerodynamic items may adversely
affect air drag and fuel consumption levels.
DRIVING STYLE
Starting
Do not warm the engine up with the car standing: the en-
gine warms up very slowly in these conditions, increas-
ing fuel consumption and emissions. It is advisable to start
off immediately and slowly keeping the engine speed
down: the engine will warm up much faster this way.
Unnecessary actions
Avoid revving up when starting at traffic lights or before
stopping the engine. The latter action, like doubling the
clutch, is unnecessary and causes increased fuel con-
sumption and pollution.
Gear selection
Use a higher gear as soon as traffic and road conditions
allow. Using a low gear for faster acceleration will increase
fuel consumption.
In the same way improper use of a high gear increases
fuel consumption, emissions and engine wear.
Top speed
Fuel consumption considerably increases as speed in-
creases. Keep your speed as even as possible, avoiding un-
necessary braking and acceleration, which cause excessive
fuel consumption and increased emissions.
165-174 Delta 4ed gb 13-05-2009 16:09 Pagina 171