Fuel economy and CO₂ emissions

Fuel efficiency is the relationship between the distance travelled in a vehicle and the amount of fuel consumed. Advanced engine and transmission technology, aerodynamics and weight reducing actions help keep down fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, while delivering rewarding levels of power and performance.

Our engine family includes the multi-award-winning Ford EcoBoost petrol engine with Auto Start-Stop and innovative turbocharging to further improve fuel economy and emissions. And, whether petrol or diesel, all our engines comply with the latest stringent European environmental requirements.

The link between CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption

Cars powered by petrol or diesel engines emit CO₂ and other substances through their exhausts. Because of its relevance for the environment, CO₂ is the basis for current and future emission legislation, as well as car tax regimes, in many countries.

However, not all engines use the same amount of fuel. Depending on the engine’s design, the size and weight of the vehicle and the style of driving, there will be a variation in how much fuel is required to drive it along.

And because the amount of CO₂ a car emits is directly related to the amount of fuel it consumes, the higher the fuel consumption, the higher the quantity of CO₂ emitted.

The official fuel consumption test is changing

In September 2017, a new official fuel consumption standardised test procedure, called the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), was introduced for Europe. The new test has been developed to better reflect real-world driving behaviour, replacing the old NEDC test cycle. And means that the published fuel economy figures are designed to be closer to those you experience on the road.

The new test procedure includes:

More realistic driving behaviour (faster and more dynamic, wider temperature range)

Higher average and maximum speeds

A wider range of driving scenarios

Optional equipment and payload, different engines, transmissions and wheel sizes

Individual vehicle CO₂ value

When you see the new figures, you may think that the fuel performance of your car has got worse, but it hasn’t. Remember, the published figures will more accurately reflect the fuel economy you achieve.

In September 2017, a new official fuel consumption standardised test procedure, called the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), was introduced for Europe.

The new test, has been developed to better reflect real-world driving behaviour replacing the old NEDC test cycle.

In comparison to the previous test data, the results will be closer to those you achieve on the road.

6 driving tips that could reduce your fuel bill

These techniques could cut your fuel bill significantly.

Service your car and check the oil level regularly. Correctly maintained cars operate more efficiently.

Check and adjust tyre pressures monthly. Underinflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by up to four percent.

Vehicle weight is a major factor in fuel efficiency. Travel light by not carrying unnecessary weight in the boot or cabin.

Remove empty roof racks and keep windows shut. This will reduce wind resistance, reducing fuel use by up to 10 percent.

Drive smoothly, looking as far as possible ahead. Sudden acceleration and braking penalise fuel economy.

When accelerating, select higher gears as early as possible. Ford models have gearshift indicators to optimise gear selection.

Auto Start-Stop shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary. Leave the system switched on to help reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.