154STARTING UP AND DRIVING
Acceleration
Sudden acceleration has a very negative effect on fuel con-
sumption and emissions: accelerate gradually.
CONDITIONS OF USE
Cold starting
Short distances and frequent cold start-ups will prevent
the engine from reaching optimal running temperature.
Consequently, both fuel consumption (from +15 to +30%
on urban cycle ) and emissions will increase.
Traffic and road conditions
Rather high fuel consumption is caused by heavy traffic,
for instance when travelling in a queue with frequent use
of low gears or in cities with many traffic lights. Moun-
tain and rough roads also have a negative effect on fuel
consumption.
Traffic hold-ups
During prolonged hold-ups (level crossings) the engine
should be switched off.TOWING TRAILERS
IMPORTANT NOTES
The car must be provided with a type-approved tow hitch
and adequate electrical system to tow caravans or trail-
ers. Installation must be performed by specialised per-
sonnel who will issue the required papers for travelling on
roads.
Install any specific and/or additional rear-view mirrors as
specified by the Highway Code.
Remember that when towing a trailer, steep hills are hard-
er to climb, braking distances increase and overtaking
takes longer depending on the overall weight of the trail-
er.
Engage a low gear when driving downhill, rather than con-
stantly using the brake.
The weight of the trailer on the car’s tow hitch will reduce
the loading capacity of the car by the same amount. Con-
sider the weight of the vehicle at full load, including ac-
cessories and luggage to make sure you do not exceed the
maximum towable weight (shown on the registration cer-
tificate).
Respect the speed limits specific for each country for ve-
hicles towing trailers. In all cases, the top speed must not
exceed 100 km/h.
