Fiat launches eco:Drive software

Fiat hopes to change the world’s driving habits with a new eco:Drive computer programme.

The free eco:Drive software was unveiled by the car maker this week at the 2008 Paris Motor Show.

Drivers using the software are given detailed feedback on the fuel consumption of their driving style, and offered personalised tips on how to make their driving more eco-friendly.

Feedback includes fuel consumption graphs, driving style diagrams, and potential savings to be made by eco-conscious driving.

As well as giving feedback on driving style, the software suggests different routes that could be more eco-friendly.

Eco:Drive works using Fiat’s Blue&Me in car entertainment system.

As well as installing the software on their computer, drivers install it onto a USB pen drive, which is plugged into the Blue&Me system.

The car then records detailed information on the user’s driving style to the USB stick.

When the driver wants feedback on her driving, she can take the USB stick out of the Blue&Me, and plug it into her computer.

Drivers who install the software could save up to 15% off their fuel bill, as well as helping the environment.

The keenest can join EcoVille, an online community set up by Fiat where drivers can discuss eco-driving tips, and share how much CO2 they are saving.

Eco:Drive software is available to download free of charge from www.fiat.com/ecodrive.

The software currently works in Grande Punto and Fiat 500 models.