Promoting Eco-Friendly Driving Habits

By Steve Ward and the Mercury Team

Driving is a big part of daily life. But did you know that small changes in how you drive can save you money and reduce your impact on the environment? In fact, new vehicle CO₂ emissions hit a record low of 319 grams per mile in 2023, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This shows progress, but there’s still more we can do—especially when it comes to daily driving habits and choosing fuel-efficient vehicles.

In this blog, we’ll explore practical ways to drive greener, from simple fuel-saving tips to the benefits of hybrid and electric vehicles.

How Driving Habits Affect Fuel Efficiency

The way you drive has a huge impact on how much fuel your car uses. However, small changes in your driving habits can help you get more miles per gallon, spend less at the pump, and reduce your car’s carbon footprint.

Aggressive Driving Burns More Fuel

Speeding, rapid acceleration, and hard braking might get you where you’re going a few seconds faster, but they drastically reduce fuel efficiency. In fact, aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by up to 40% in stop-and-go traffic, according to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Smooth, steady driving keeps your engine running efficiently and helps you save money on gas.

Idling = Wasted Gas

We’ve all done it—you start your car, realize you forgot your phone inside, and leave the engine running while you dash back into the house. No big deal, right? The Utah Department of Environmental Quality states that it’s actually more fuel-efficient to turn off and restart your engine than to let it idle if you’re stopped for more than 10 seconds. Whether you’re waiting in a parking lot, sitting in the driveway, or picking up a friend, cutting unnecessary idling can save fuel and reduce your environmental impact.

Maintain a Steady Speed

Constant speeding up and slowing down forces your engine to work harder, leading to more fuel consumption. When you can, use cruise control on highways to help maintain a consistent speed and improve gas mileage. Staying between 55-65 mph is the sweet spot for fuel efficiency. Anything above 70 mph starts guzzling gas fast.

Vehicle Maintenance for Eco-Friendliness

A well-maintained vehicle uses less gas (or electricity for electric vehicles), which means more money in your pocket and a smaller carbon footprint. Here are some maintenance tips to keep in mind:

• Check your tire pressure: Underinflated tires create more resistance on the road, forcing your engine to work harder. Keeping your tires properly inflated can boost fuel efficiency by up to 3%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Plus, it helps your tires last longer, saving you money on replacements.
• Change oil regularly: Using the right type of motor oil reduces friction in your engine to help it run efficiently. Old or incorrect oil can cause your engine to work harder and make your car burn more fuel than necessary. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended oil type and change it on schedule.
• Replace air filters when needed: A dirty air filter restricts airflow to your engine, which lowers performance and fuel economy. Replace it regularly so your car breathes easily and runs efficiently.

Selecting a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle

If you’re in the market for a new car, choosing a fuel-efficient or eco-friendly model can save you money on gas while reducing your environmental impact. But with so many options—hybrids, electric vehicles (EVs), and high-MPG gas cars—how do you decide?

• Electric vehicles (EVs): These produce zero emissions and require no gas, making them the most eco-friendly choice. Look for range per charge and available charging stations in your area.
• Hybrid and plug-in vehicles: These combine gas and electric power, offering better fuel economy without relying solely on charging infrastructure.
• Fuel-efficient gas cars: If you’re not ready for an EV, look for models with high MPG ratings. The EPA’s Fuel Economy Guide lets you compare gas mileage, emissions, and annual fuel costs to find the best option for your budget and needs.

Insurance Considerations for Eco-Friendly Drivers

Driving a fuel-efficient or eco-friendly vehicle can also lower your car insurance costs. Many insurers offer auto insurance discounts if you drive an electric vehicle, as these cars often have advanced safety features and lower emissions. Plus, if you drive less, you may qualify for a low-mileage discount since fewer miles on the road typically mean a lower risk of accidents.

Be sure to check with your insurer to see if you’re eligible for eco-friendly discounts.

Potential Financial Incentives

Switching to an EV or another eco-friendly vehicle comes with financial perks while also helping keep the planet cleaner and greener. Here are a few incentives to consider:

• Federal and state tax credits and rebates: The U.S. federal government offers tax credits of up to $7,500 for qualifying EVs and plug-in hybrids. Many states also provide additional rebates, which can further lower the cost of purchasing an electric vehicle. Be sure to search the Department of Energy’s database for incentives in your area.
• Utility and charging incentives: Some utility companies offer incentives for EV owners, such as rebates for installing home charging stations or discounted electricity rates during off-peak hours. Check with your local utility providers for available programs.
• Reduced fuel and EV maintenance costs: Beyond direct financial incentives, EV owners may enjoy other perks. For one, charging an EV is usually cheaper than filling up a gas tank, especially if you charge at home during off-peak hours. Additionally, EVs have fewer moving parts than traditional gas-powered cars, which means lower maintenance costs and fewer headaches down the road.

Greener Driving Tips

Making small changes to your daily driving habits can reduce emissions, save fuel, and make your commute more eco-friendly. Here are some ways to practice eco-friendly driving:

• Carpool or use public transit: Sharing a ride with coworkers or taking the bus/train is a great way to practice sustainable commuting by reducing the number of cars on the road, cutting emissions, and saving on fuel costs.
• Plan and combine errands: Instead of taking multiple trips, try grouping errands together to reduce unnecessary driving and fuel consumption.
• Lighten your load: Carrying extra weight in your trunk makes your car work harder and burns more fuel. Remove anything you don’t need to improve efficiency.
• Drive smarter: Avoid rapid acceleration and braking, use cruise control on highways, and stay within the speed limit for better mileage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I be more eco-friendly when driving?

Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, maintain a steady speed, and cut down on idling to save fuel. Carpooling, public transit, and regular car maintenance (like checking tire pressure) also help. If you’re looking for the biggest impact, switching to a hybrid or EV is a great way to go green.

What makes driving more environmentally friendly?

Driving smoothly, keeping your car in great shape, removing extra weight from your trunk, and using cruise control on highways. Choosing a fuel-efficient, hybrid, or electric car is another great way to lower emissions.

What are the most eco-friendly cars?

Here are some examples of eco-friendly cars:

• Electric vehicles (EVs): Tesla Model 3 and Nissan Leaf
• Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs): Toyota Prius Prime and Honda Clarity PHEV
• Hybrids: Toyota Prius and Honda Accord Hybrid
• Fuel-efficient gas cars: Toyota Corolla Hybrid and Honda Civic

What does it mean when a car is ‘green’?

A green car is one that uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions, making it better for the environment. This includes EVs, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and even fuel-efficient gas cars.

Ask the Expert

Q: Can eco-friendly driving really help my car last longer?

A: “Absolutely! Things like smooth braking and gentle acceleration mean less stress on your engine, transmission, and brakes, so they don’t wear out as fast. And keeping up with basic maintenance, like changing the oil on time, checking tire pressure, rotating your tires, and checking the alignment, helps everything run more smoothly. Treat your car well, and it’ll treat you well.”

- Steve Ward, Director, Strategic Planning and ERM

Conclusion

Whether you’re sticking with a gas-powered vehicle, switching to a hybrid, or going fully electric, every step toward sustainable commuting makes a difference.

If you own or are thinking about buying an electric vehicle, it’s also important to find the right car insurance for EV owners. Mercury offers cheap car insurance tailored to fuel-efficient and eco-friendly vehicles so you can protect your investment without overspending. Contact us today for a fast, free quote!