Fuel economy when coasting

A leaflet from the Department of Transport ("Be a smarter driver and save money") says this: "Don't coast downhill or towards the lights in neutral as this uses more fuel." Is this true?

Asked on 9 August 2012 by ivan S

Answered by Honest John

Yes. The engine requires a little bit of fuel to tick over while coasting out of gear. In gear with foot off the accelerator, the drivetrain turns the engine and the fuel supply to it is cut off entirely.

Tags: fuel economy driving

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