The driving modes provide the possibility to improve the driving experience in a particular situation, as well as to maximize energy efficiency in certain scenarios.
Although it is not a feature that is present in all cars on the market, it is increasingly common to find the driving mode selector in the center console. Some people believe that it is a luxury, however, this function is an industry response to technological evolution itself.
One of the historical episodes that unleashed a revolution in the sector was the entry of electronics. This opened the door to functions that we consider normal today, such as the automatic lighting of the lights, the multimedia management system or the disappearance of the handbrake, among others.
However, a large sector of the population is still not familiar with the so-called driving modes . Even several people who have a vehicle with these characteristics often ignore their use or do not use them properly.
How driving modes work
The driving mode selector is used to change the parameters of some vehicle systems. The objective of these preset configurations is to maximize the efficiency of the car’s systems and to obtain a handling that adapts to our requirements.
Through this selector, which can be a button, a rotary control or the digital interface of the car, we can choose the different driving modes . Normally, the changes made have some effect on the harshness of the steering, the response of the engine when stepping on the accelerator, the way the transmission, suspension and other complementary systems operate. In most cases, the selector is located on the center console.
The most common driving modes
The number of driving modes depends on each vehicle. There are cars that only have 2 options, while there are others with more than 5. However, the most common are usually the Eco, Normal and Sport modes. It is worth mentioning that there are also cars that can include an extra customizable mode, this means that the driver can set their own parameters and save them in the car’s computer.
It’s also very common to see this feature on adventure-oriented trucks as manufacturers seek to maximize the versatility of their vehicles. Facing a snow-covered road is not the same as facing a dry asphalt road or a dirt trail. In this way, they include special modes to deal with different types of terrain.
If we ignore the driving modes from the beginning , we will most likely end up driving our car in Normal mode. It is the default configuration and, in terms of efficiency, it would be located between the Eco and Sport modes.
In contrast, Eco mode sets energy efficiency as a priority. If we talk about a car with an internal combustion engine, we would be facing the appropriate configuration to maximize the performance of gasoline or diesel. In this way, operating parameters will be set for the engine, transmission and even the air conditioning system. Of course, we will sacrifice power and speed, but we will be able to fully squeeze our fuel tank and the vehicle will register lower polluting emissions.
It should not be confused with the EV mode found in hybrid vehicles. While the Eco configuration tries to maximize fuel efficiency, the second reduces consumption to zero to use only the electric motor. Of course, the distance that can be covered with this mode is relatively less, but it is a suitable solution for moving around cities with frequent braking.
As we can predict, the Sport mode is at the opposite extreme. Along with the Eco setting, this is one of the most used driving modes . This is because the priority is to maximize the emotions behind the wheel, putting power delivery, acceleration and precision at the center of everything. Under this configuration, the aim is to squeeze the full potential of the block, in addition to obtaining a more sensitive response when pressing the pedals.
It is worth mentioning that the driving modes of conventional cars move within parameters for safe driving. However, this changes in performance vehicles intended, by nature, for aggressive driving. This is because some of the modes could involve the disconnection of safety aids, such as traction control or stability. Its use is only recommended in controlled environments and spaces, in addition to having vast experience in this type of handling.
According to the manufacturers, a common mistake made by users is to “marry” a single configuration, instead of exploring the possibilities offered by having different driving modes. In this way, it is very common to see people who do not usually move from Eco mode, people who do not touch the selector to stay in Normal mode and, of course, those who want to have a sports experience with Sport mode permanently active.
Must know these 10 driving tips for beginners
1. Get familiar with your car
The first and most important thing to do before you start driving is to familiarize yourself with your car. Familiarize yourself with the basics before you start driving it. You learn what a clutch does , you understand the gear layout, and you learn things like never downshifting into a higher gear and that it’s always best to let the vehicle come to a standstill before downshifting.
2. Correct the position of the seat
The second most important thing for a new driver to learn is seating position . Even some experienced drivers do not position themselves correctly and therefore lack comfort and control, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Make sure you sit upright, with your back and butt tucked in by the seat’s design, which helps prevent back injuries.
The driver’s seat should be placed in a position where you can see everything around you easily and comfortably. It is often said that the height of the seat should be such that the eyes are half the height of the windshield. Fore/aft, the seat should be in a position where the knees are not overstretched when fully depressing the pedal. Sit upright and do not lean forward.
3. Avoid distractions
Once you’re in the driver’s seat, keep an eye out, adjust your mirrors, put on your seatbelt, and observe the rules of the road. Avoid distractions while driving. Therefore, you must keep your eyes and attention focused on the road for every second.
Two basic rules before you start driving: do not use your cell phone while driving and do not drink and drive. Along with these rules, new drivers should especially avoid eating, playing loud music, and engaging in detailed conversations while behind the wheel.
You also have to pay attention to driving within your lanes and not swerving between them, which can also happen simply because of road imperfections.
4. Adjust your seat relative to the pedals
We can’t stress enough how important positioning your seat correctly is, which is why we bring it up a second time. The seat must always be adjusted with respect to the pedals. Fully depress the brake with your right foot and depress the clutch, this should be done so that while depressing the pedals fully your knees remain bent at about 120 degrees.
5. Steering wheel position
Despite what some may suggest, there is no one correct way to hold the steering wheel . It depends on how you want to hold it to have maximum control over it.
Most studies show that the “10 and 2” position is a good starting point for all new drivers. It is very important to hold the steering wheel correctly to have the best control of the steering and, in turn, of the car.
6. Remember to use the flashing lights
Understand the importance of flashing lights. Once you’re on the road, you’re one among many, so it’s very important to let the vehicles around you know when you’re about to turn.
The use of turn signals helps to avoid many mishaps. Remember to indicate before you have to turn and not when you turn, to give others time to react.
7. Don’t speed
The most common temptation when you’re behind the wheel is to speed up. It is very important that you familiarize yourself with the truck before you start driving at the maximum speed limit, especially on highways.
8. Keep a considerable distance from other vehicles
Nowadays cars have very powerful ABS braking systems , but despite this you have to keep a decent distance from the vehicle in front. This gives you time to react in case something goes wrong.
You may be very respectful of traffic regulations, but that does not mean that others are too. Today, the best way to drive safely is to be a defensive driver rather than an aggressive driver.
9. Do not abuse the horn
The horn is for alerting drivers around you, not for venting your frustration. Most of the time, excessive use of the horn can irritate the drivers around you and cause unnecessary trouble. An angry driver around you can cause a lot of trouble on the road.
10. Keep calm while driving
Don’t let your mood influence the way you drive, especially if you are a beginner. Angry driving shouldn’t force you to speed, and a good frame of mind doesn’t mean you have the freedom to meander in the middle of the road.