Fuel consumption

World First ECO Pedal Helps Reduce Fuel Consumption

TOKYO, August 4, 2008 -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today unveiled the ECO Pedal – a world first technology – designed to assist drivers to become more fuel-efficient. When the eco-pedal system is on, each time the driver steps on the accelarator, a counter push-back control mechanism is activated if the system detects excess pressure, helping to inform the driver that they could be using more fuel than required.

Nissan Eco-Pedal System Configuration

Wolfsburg, 27 June 2008 -- Volkswagen has won the international competition "Golden Drop of Oil 2008" for its innovative engine-gearbox combination, the powerful 90 kW TSI engine and the new 7-speed DSG gearbox. The energy and environment prize is awarded annually by the German automobile club "Kraftfahrer-Schutz e. V. (KS)". The club awards this prize for technical developments in passenger cars which make a significant contribution towards reducing fuel consumption and safeguarding the environment.

The jurors honoured the two new technical developments from Volkswagen as an intelligent combination which, together, achieve noticeable savings in fuel and emissions. It was emphasised that this technology is used in numerous models from the compact class through the small car segment.

- Continental's energy management helps to reduce fuel consumption
- Electronics from Continental capture continuous car battery data with start of production in 2008

Regensburg, January 18, 2008 -- A weak battery can easily give drivers a nasty surprise in the morning, particularly when temperatures drop: The car won’t start, because the starter doesn’t receive the needed power. The Intelligent Battery Sensor from Continental provides early warning when a battery is running down due to age, thereby preventing breakdowns. To accomplish this, it constantly determines the exact charge status of the vehicle battery. The sensor will go into series production in 2008. The sensor will then also help to reduce fuel consumption.