Stop-Start System
Ever feel like your car’s engine randomly switches off when it’s stationary at a red light? Don’t worry it’s not a sign to head down to your car workshop, it’s just the stop start-system!
Fuel Saving Function
Named for its function, the stop-start system is designed to curtail fuel consumption by shutting down the engine when the vehicle is at a standstill. Consequently, when you find yourself halted in traffic or waiting in a queue to enter a parking lot, the car automatically switches off its engine.
Upon releasing the brake pedal, the engine restarts automatically. Some vehicles may also initiate a restart when the accelerator is pressed.
Admittedly, the constant engine shutdown and restart might seem bothersome. The accompanying jitters during this process can make the driving less pleasant.
However, it is worth noting that the fuel expended to restart the car is generally less than what would be consumed during idling. Over time, the accumulated fuel savings can be rather significant, particularly if your usual driving involves peak hours. This then becomes a crucial consideration, especially when you factor in the current high cost of fuels.
Downsides
Not everyone can get used to that “jitter” when it restarts and the cabin gets warmer since due to the inactivity of the engine, the air-con compressor remains non-operational, causing discomfort, particularly on extremely hot days when the air conditioner merely circulates the existing cabin air.
Another drawback of this system is the necessity for more expensive batteries. Stop-start systems inherently require the use of either Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) or Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) battery types.
It is essential to note that both varieties are pricier than conventional (lead-acid) batteries, with AGM batteries being even more expensive than EFB ones.
To sum it all up, the objective of a Stop-Start System is to enhance fuel efficiency in urban driving conditions where the vehicle frequently stops and starts again. In typical implementations, these systems can increase the vehicle’s fuel economy by 3-10 percent, with most vehicles experiencing approximately a 5 percent improvement.
