By Devin Pratt
Modern cars are engineered to optimize fuel economy In various manners. A key aspect of this technology is the auto start-stop feature which powers down the engine during idle periods and reignites it once the brakes are disengaged or the gas pedal is pressed. However, what is the true impact of this innovation? save you on gas ?
Based on varying driving circumstances, the enhancements in fuel efficiency provided by the start/stop feature ranged from 7.27% and 26.4% in fuel consumption During testing, as per the guidelines set by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).
“Should you frequently travel on highways without turning off your engine, the fuel efficiency will likely decrease,” explains Alex Knizek, associate director for auto test development at Consumer Reports. “However, when operating within cities where engines often idle, start-stop technology can genuinely lead to reduced fuel consumption.”
Different systems vary significantly. Many cars utilize just one Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery for all their vehicle’s 12-volt electrical needs. The AGM battery is engineered to deplete at a slower rate, which extends its life span compared to conventional lead-acid car batteries. Several auto makers like BMW, Jeep, and Mercedes-Benz provide models commonly known as “ mild hybrids These cars feature a compact electric motor that supports the gasoline engine. This setup enables the vehicle to glide with the engine turned off and keeps the engine inactive for extended periods when stopped at traffic lights. Such vehicles utilize an additional battery specifically for powering the start-stop functionality.
No matter if your vehicle has one or two batteries For the start-stop system, or whether it’s a mild hybrid or not, this technology is intended to manage the frequent restarting and halting of the engine.
There is often a misunderstanding that these systems can be detrimental to the engine or starter, leading some motorists to deactivate their functionality," explains Knizek. These features are created with this purpose in mind; however, similar to all additional functions, there is always a chance that they might require servicing or fixing at some point.
Knizek adds, “Some people just think these systems are annoying, and reach for the system’s off button as soon as they start the car.” This can be helpful in instances where the stops are brief and there is a need for quick acceleration to join traffic, as the stop/start systems can cause a slight pause as they restart the engine. These buttons can deactivate the system while driving, but next time you manually restart the car, the stop/start function will be activated.
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Editor’s Note: This article has been adapted from an episode of "The Show." Talking Cars. ”
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