vectra query

Hi peoples,

Just a query, If I drive my 2.2 TDi Veccy estate 04 plate (on the dual
carrageway that is fairly clear of traffic) at a contant 70mph will I save
or use more fuel doing the same thing but using the cruise control? I know
the CC will hold the speed up hill and down dale better than I can but does
this come at a cost of fuel.

Paul@Olliebears

 

I suspect you would save a tiny bit of petrol - by anticipating downhill
stretches and easing off marginally earlier, and by not flooring it on the
inclines. But I very much doubt the saving would be measurable. (I assume
it's a manual box.)

 

I dont notice a huge difference on my 2.2DTi (also an estate). At the
moment mine is doing about 42mpg (tends to do better in the summer
47/48). I have had up to 50mpg (in the summer, no lights etc) but that
not exceeding 50mph and being very very gentle on the throttle.
The CC is most useful in 40/50 limits, the long streches on motorways
and dual carriageways, it has saved me some points on my licence!
Dave

 

Petrol case:-

Wierd one this... I've found that, on average, the CC on my Omega is
significantly (35mpg vs 25mpg) than my attempts to keep constant speed -
it almost is a "save money" button.

Only problem is I can only try it for short periods on the main dual
carriageway that I use (to work and back) and any traffic tends to
bugger up the experiment, but I've already spoken to a mate on the
subject who was to try it in his Veccy.

 

Yes the cruise control will be better at taking off the acceleration when
you start to go down hill, but it will use fuel trying stay at 70mph going
up the hill. However maybe if you where not using the cruise control you
may leave your foot on the accelerator where I was and just slow down at
little say to 65MPH when going up hill and not using as much fuel. So it's
swings and roundabouts really!

Rich