Trainee bus driver and instructor reviewing a checklist beside a single-deck bus at the depot

PCV study notes

Environmental Issues

Fuel economy, emissions, noise, planning routes and eco-driving.

What this topic covers

Fuel economy, emissions, noise, planning routes and eco-driving. The full PCV Theory Test & Toolkit app contains 36 questions on this topic.

In the app's syllabus: Vehicle noise, Wind resistance, Fuel consumption, Refueling.

Worked examples

Here are a few practice questions from this topic. Try answering each before reading the explanation.

Example 1

What are the consequences of driving your vehicle when it's emitting excessive exhaust smoke?

A. You'll be breaking the law ✓ correct
B. The brakes will fade more easily
C. Your vision ahead will be reduced
D. Its fuel consumption will improve

Explanation: It's illegal to drive a vehicle that's emitting excessive exhaust smoke, so you should get the problem fixed as soon as you're aware of it. Excessive exhaust smoke increases pollution and creates a hazard for other road users.

Example 2

You're driving in a built-up area between 11:30pm and 7am. For what reason can you sound the vehicle's horn?

A. To warn another road user who poses a danger ✓ correct
B. To let another road user know you're giving way
C. To get another driver to move out of your way
D. To greet a friend

Explanation: The horn must not be used between 11:30pm and 7am in a built-up area. The only exception is when another road user is unaware of you and poses a danger.

Example 3

You're driving in a built-up area. Your vehicle is fitted with an audible warning device that sounds when it's reversing. When must you turn off this alarm?

A. Between 12:30am and 7am
B. Between 11:30pm and 7am ✓ correct
C. Between 11:30pm and 6:30am
D. Between midnight and 6:30am

Explanation: Some vehicles are fitted with an audible warning that sounds when the vehicle is reversing. This is an effective way to warn pedestrians and other road users of a reversing vehicle, but it does not take away the need to use effective observation all around your vehicle before and while you're reversing. Do not use the device in built-up areas between 11:30pm and 7am. Have consideration for the residents and do not disturb them with excessive noise.

Example 4

What must you do after filling your fuel tanks?

A. Complete the fuel log sheets
B. Securely close the filler caps ✓ correct
C. Check your tachograph
D. Check your fuel gauge

Explanation: Make certain that your filler caps are properly closed, so that you do not spill fuel as you drive along the road.

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More PCV study notes

Get all 36 questions on this topic in the PCV Theory Test & Toolkit app.