startstopjärjestelmään

Startstopjärjestelmään, known in English as a start-stop system, is a feature found in many modern vehicles designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary. The system typically activates when the driver applies the brakes and brings the vehicle to a complete stop, such as at a traffic light or in congested traffic. Once the engine is shut off, various sensors monitor conditions. When the driver intends to move again, such as by releasing the brake pedal or pressing the clutch in a manual transmission vehicle, the system quickly and seamlessly restarts the engine.

The primary components of a start-stop system include an enhanced starter motor, a more robust battery designed for frequent starts, and sophisticated engine control unit (ECU) software. The ECU determines when it is safe and appropriate to shut down and restart the engine, taking into account factors like battery charge level, engine temperature, and the operation of accessories like the air conditioning.

The benefits of start-stop systems are primarily environmental and economic. By preventing the engine from idling unnecessarily, fuel consumption is reduced, leading to lower running costs for the owner and a decrease in carbon dioxide emissions. While the system is designed for efficiency, drivers may notice a slight delay in acceleration immediately after the engine restarts. Most vehicles offer a way to temporarily disable the start-stop system if desired, often through a button on the dashboard. The technology has become increasingly common as manufacturers strive to meet stricter emissions regulations and improve the fuel economy of their fleets.