People Are Just Discovering What the “E” on Some Car Gear Sticks Really Means—And It’s Not What Most Drivers Think

People Are Just Discovering What the “E” on Some Car Gear Sticks Really Means—And It’s Not What Most Drivers Think

Reduce fuel consumption whenever possible.

Why Fuel Economy Matters

Reducing fuel use benefits both drivers and the environment.

Improved fuel efficiency can:

Lower operating costs

Reduce emissions

Extend engine life

Increase driving range

Even small improvements become significant over thousands of miles.

Common Myths About Economy Gear

Myth 1: Economy gear makes the car faster.

False.

It actually prioritizes fuel efficiency rather than acceleration.

Myth 2: Economy gear should always be used.

False.

It works best at steady highway speeds.

Myth 3: Economy gear damages the engine.

False.

When used correctly, it reduces engine workload.

Myth 4: Every manual car has Economy gear.

False.

Only certain transmissions include a dedicated Economy gear or label.

Other Mysterious Letters on Gear Selectors

Drivers may also encounter:

R

Reverse.

N

Neutral.

P

Park (automatic transmissions).

D

Drive.

L

Low gear.

S

Sport mode.

M

Manual mode.

B

Brake mode (common in some hybrid and electric vehicles).

Each serves a different purpose depending on the transmission design.