The mobility industry has always been the focus of the debate when talking about sustainability and pollution. For this reason, awareness and measures must be taken to mitigate the negative effects and continue to build the path towards sustainable driving. In this article, we will discuss what it means to actively participate in sustainable consumption and driving, as well as its benefits for the planet and society.
Sustainability: a symbol of responsibility
For several years now, sustainability and environmental responsibility have been gaining ground and becoming more and more relevant. As citizens, we have become more aware of the importance of living a more sustainable lifestyle with the least possible environmental impact.
From small gestures at home, such as the use of energy-saving LED light bulbs, to driving electric vehicles and constructing self-sufficient buildings. We are increasingly aware of the impact of our carbon footprint and technological advances in recent years have made it easier to lead a sustainable lifestyle.
When it comes to companies, acting sustainably is highly valued, and not doing so is staying a step behind. In recent years, corporate social responsibility has become one of consumers’ most highly valued aspects when choosing a product or service. Customers are looking for honesty, coherence, and commitment, a company that contributes something to society and the environment beyond its economic activity. Commitment to the environment can range from the use of electric vehicles as company cars to collaboration in large environmental projects in the fight against global warming.
Every action counts positively, not only to reduce the carbon footprint and have a positive impact on the planet but to inspire other companies to join this movement and collaborate.
Sustainable and responsible practices not only affect the environment, but also positively impact communities and, in the long term, can reduce costs. Another way to act positively is to invest in technological innovation to optimize processes and become more efficient. In addition to reduction in waste generation, the use of recycled materials or the use of renewable energies.
Both individuals and companies have a responsibility to the planet and must take action to mitigate and reduce any harmful effects they may be generating, however minimal they may be. Promote sustainable and responsible values in the fight against global warming from operational processes to the suppliers and services chosen.
Choosing sustainable services: transport and mobility
Acting in an environmentally conscious way represents values of commitment, leading by example daily from small decisions like choosing sustainable services, and positively affecting the environment and society.
Choosing services such as sustainable transportation is a way to be part of this movement towards a cleaner world. For example, when booking a chauffeured private transfer to the airport or private transportation services for corporate travel, doing it with a company committed to sustainability and environmentally conscious is a way to show support and make a small contribution. Not only is it important that the company has an electric vehicle fleet, but also that it is truly committed and responsible in all areas.
Opting for sustainable transport and mobility shows commitment and values. There are many celebrities who opt for driving a high-end electric vehicle, actors like Robert Downey Jr. and Matt Damon drive an Audi E-Tron and a Karma Revero GT Luxury respectively, moving towards a world of more sustainable driving.
What kind of technology does sustainable transport require?
We can describe sustainable mobility as one that focuses on traveling while generating fewer emissions and consuming as little energy as possible.
When we talk about cars and sustainable driving, we are referring to vehicles designed to meet two requirements: consume less energy and reduce pollution. So what kind of technology does a car fleet committed to sustainable driving require?
Starting with the engine and propulsion, sustainable green transportation usually emits no more than 120 grams of carbon dioxide (CO₂) per 100 kilometers. One design technique used to achieve this is called downsizing, which, as the name suggests, refers to reducing the size and displacement of the engine without losing power. With this change, the vehicle uses less fuel and generates fewer emissions.
The use of hybrid and electric engines goes a step further. Electric cars travel with propulsion generated by electric energy stored in a lithium battery, rechargeable through a plug. These vehicles are the most sustainable, although their range is shorter. A hybrid engine combines electricity-generated propulsion with a turbo-diesel engine, which recharges the battery and extends the car’s range.
High-end vehicle brands are betting on these designs, not only because of their environmental commitment but also for what they represent: technological advancement, innovation, and sophistication. One of the most distinguished models this year 2024 for its performance and autonomy is the Tesla Model 3.
Besides having a design focused on lower consumption and less pollution, high-end electric cars are also committed to comfort and safety. The fact that they do not have a fuel engine makes it possible to reorganize the entire interior and play with spaces and distribution. Electric car batteries are usually located under the seats, in the lower part of the vehicle, so the center of gravity is centered and closer to the ground, making the car more stable and safer.
The latest generation of electric cars usually has the latest safety technology on board, such as object and people detection systems on the road to avoid front and rear collisions. As well as driving assistants such as automatic speed control, involuntary lane change control, and even automatic parking.
A high-end electric car is not only committed to being an efficient and sustainable mean of transportation but also to offering comfort with more spacious, modern, silent designs and integrated state-of-the-art safety systems.
Environmental impact of sustainable mobility
As drivers, we have a responsibility to drive in a way that has a lower environmental impact. Many practices promote sustainable and efficient driving.
The selected vehicle
It is important to consider the vehicle we own and its aerodynamics. If it is a late-model electric or hybrid car, it will very likely be one of the most environmentally friendly vehicles. If it is a combustion engine vehicle, we must consider other aspects, such as whether the tires are in good condition, are the correct size, and are well inflated. In addition, keep the vehicle well maintained with regular mechanical check-ups to detect possible problems that may be adversely affecting its operation. For example, an EGR valve failure may be causing higher fuel use and, therefore, higher carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.
Responsibility behind the wheel
The way we drive has a direct impact on the environmental footprint we leave behind. The first thing to consider is whether it is necessary to use the car to cover the distance we have to travel. If it is short, perhaps you can use an eco-friendly transportation method or just take a walk. If it is necessary to use the vehicle, consider sharing a car with other passengers going to the same destination. For example, if you have dinner plans with friends, you can travel together to the restaurant. Also, optimize the route to save time and make a shorter trip.
Road behavior must also be taken into account, as aggressive driving influences the emissions generated on the road. Each driver has their own driving style, although a relaxed and non-aggressive style is recommended. The driver should follow road indications, not exceed the recommended speed, and try not to brake abruptly. If the vehicle has a manual gearbox, ideally you should not rev it, always keep it below 3000 rpm and stop the engine when the car is idling. If the vehicle has an ECO driving mode, this mode should always be active to optimize fuel consumption.
Many factors, such as traffic, personal condition, or even the music listened to during the trip, can influence the level of stress and aggressiveness while driving. It is not the same to travel with soft background music as with a louder and more strident rhythm. It is worth noting that the attitude behind the wheel is a factor to be considered by some insurance companies when evaluating a policy. There are different devices that are placed in the vehicle and measure the aggressiveness of a driver behind the wheel. Studies such as Driving Style Recognition Using a Smartphone as a Sensor Platform and Driving Style Recognition System Using Smartphone Sensors Based on Fuzzy Logic, show models based on data obtained from the accelerometer, GPS, and camera of a cell phone to detect driving events such as turns or stops and the intensity of these to warn the driver through an application and measure driving aggressiveness.
This type of technology has already been adopted by insurance and ride-hailing companies, family tracking applications, and transportation companies. Having this data and being able to monitor drivers’ behavior helps to improve driving, making it safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.
Drivania’s commitment to sustainable transport
Drivania is making great technological advances to ensure better customer service in terms of sustainable policies and practices. Change starts from within, our main offices are sustainable, and employees have a hybrid work model to avoid having to travel by road every day. In addition to having electric vehicles in our fleet, we want to convey our environmental awareness and inspire and train our network of suppliers in sustainable driving.
We are aware of the impact that our operations produce, for this reason, we took the initiative to achieve a zero impact on the planet, working to neutralize the historical carbon footprint since the company was founded in 2001. In 2023, Drivania achieved its goal by being the first company in the sector to offset more than 20 years of carbon footprint through the carbon footprint offset program, placing us as pioneers in environmental responsibility. By choosing Drivania Chauffeurs, you are not only choosing quality private travel and personalized attention but also the services of a company committed to the environment that works every day to be part of this climate fight from within.