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(NC)-Technology is making it so easy to do just about everything nowadays, including the way we drive and how fuel-efficient our vehicles are. Consider going high tech if you want to lower your consumption, reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and save fuel. Look for these high tech bells and whistles when you go to buy a new or used vehicle:
. Variable valve timing and lift: improves the flow of fuel and air during the engine cycle by varying the opening and closing of the engine valves depending on need. The technology can result in both greater power and better fuel efficiency.
. Cylinder deactivation allows V-6 and V-8 engines to operate as though they had fewer cylinders. While cylinder deactivation cannot decrease the weight of engines, it does reduce fuel consumption under light-load cruising conditions by only delivering fuel to activated cylinders.
. Gasoline and Diesel direct injection uses sophisticated electronic fuel-flow and air-flow controls, and precision injectors which inject the fuel directly into the cylinder and optimize the ideal mixture of air and fuel during combustion.
. Continuously Variable Transmission: Or CVT's don't have a gearbox with a set number of gears, instead they typically operate on a pulley configuration that allows an infinite number of engine/wheel speed ratios. This technology results in better engine speed matching, ideal "gear" selection and improved fuel efficiency.
. Hybrid Technology: by combining an internal combustion engine with an electrical motor and battery pack, most hybrids today can achieve improvements in fuel efficiency by using the electric motor to supplement engine power. Some hybrids can also operate exclusively using the electric motor at low speeds. Batteries do not require plugging in and are recharged by harnessing the energy from braking and from the engine.
Hybrids are ideal vehicles for individuals who travel predominantly in the city under stop and go conditions. Consumers can use this information to help them buy, drive and maintain their vehicles in ways that will conserve energy, preserve the environment, protect their health and save money.
Visit Natural Resources Canada's website at vehicles.gc.ca or call 1-800-387-2000 to learn about the EnerGuide Label for Vehicles, the Fuel Consumption Guide and for other tips and tools to encourage fuel efficiency.