Ecodriving on the exam – how to change gears not to fail?

For several years "Eco-driving" has been an assessed element of the state exam. For many it's absurd, but regulations are clear. You don't have to be a fuel saving master, but you must meet two specific requirements. Which ones?

1. Changing gears at the right moment

This is the main sin of students: "revving" the engine in first or second gear. Exam rules say clearly:

• Changing to higher gear: You should engage higher gear when engine reaches between 1800 to 2600 revolutions per minute.
• First 4 gears: You should engage 4th gear before reaching 50 km/h (obviously if conditions allow!).

In practice:

1. You start (1st gear).
2. Accelerate, hear engine starting to work louder (approx. 2000-2500 rpm) -> shift into 2nd.
3. And so on. Do not drag engine to 3-4 thousand revolutions without need (unless overtaking or merging into traffic – then dynamics are more important than ecology!).

2. Engine braking (don't coast in neutral!)

Driving "in neutral" (gear disengaged) or with clutch pressed while approaching an intersection is a mistake.

• Rule: As long as car is rolling, gear should be engaged, and foot off the gas. Clutch you press only in the last phase, just before stopping the car (so it doesn't stall).
• Why? Engine braking cuts off fuel supply (consumption = 0) and saves brake pads.

When does Ecodriving lose to safety?

The examiner will not fail you for ecodriving if situation required different behavior.

• If you must quickly escape intersection – pedal to metal and high RPMs are OK.
• If you drive up steep hill – don't shift high gear too early, because car will "die".

Summary of rules for exam

1. Change gears in range 1800-2600 rpm.
2. Try to engage higher gears quickly (e.g. fourth at 50 km/h on straight road).
3. Approaching red light: release gas, leave gear, brake with brake. Press clutch only at approx. 1000-1200 revolutions, right before stop.

That's it. Ecodriving on the exam is not quantum physics, it's just smooth, calm driving.