Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/315150
Text Nic Townsend Illustration Erickton THE DRIVING CHALLENGE Gear shifts: less means more Unnecessary gear changes cost fuel and while automated trasmissions such as Volvo's I-Shift can offer a lot of support, ultimately it's still up to the driver to shift efficiently. "The I-Shift is the heart of the truck's driveline; however, the driver is still in control and is essentially its eyes," says Scott Sokach, Manager, Driver Training and Development, Volvo Trucks Academy. "For all its sophisticated automated intelligence, I-Shift still relies on input from the driver, and driver behavior has a huge influence on how it works." When in operation, the I-Shift is constantly collecting information from its many sensors, covering a range of parameters, which it then rapidly processes to ensure the optimal gear is being used. Every time a driver brakes, accelerates or coasts, they're essentially communicating with the I-Shift and sending more information, which is taken into account when choosing gears. Since I-Shift cannot see the road ahead, this input from the driver is vital for the system to operate with maximum efficiency. By being aware of your driving behavior and how it influences the I-Shift, you can reduce the number of gear changes, saving both fuel and wear to your truck's components. "Like all good driving techniques, it's all about planning and being proactive," adds Sokach. "Look ahead and try to anticipate your next action, so that you can avoid stopped- starts and use the momentum of the truck more effectively." As a truck gradually loses power driving uphill, I-Shift will automatically shift down in gear. However, if you're approaching the crest of the hill and don't feel you need more power, you can move the gear lever to manual mode, the 'M' position on the gear lever, to hold your current gear. If your I-Shift is equipped with the Premium Gear Selector, you can press the '+' button on the gear lever to avoid a downshift. Both these techniques avoid an unnecessary gear change. Stay in gear uphill Always try to avoid complete stops. If you see that you're approaching an obstruction, don't wait until you're close before applying the brakes and making a complete stop. Instead, take your foot off the accelerator earlier and gradually slow down. This can save one to two extra gear changes for every stop. Keep moving 1 B E N E F ITS Fuel Economy Wear and Tear Safety 2 20 D R I V E R ' S D I G ES T #2 /2014