Moteur au ralentiAfrique du Sud
Règles de circulation
Afrique du Sud
41. Moteur au ralenti
Le ralenti consiste à laisser tourner le moteur d’un véhicule alors que celui-ci est immobile et que le moteur n’est pas utilisé pour le déplacer. Cela peut se produire pendant une attente, un stationnement, un chargement ou déchargement ou avant le départ.
Un ralenti inutile consomme du carburant et produit des émissions d’échappement, de la pollution de l’air et du bruit. De nombreux pays ou autorités locales limitent le ralenti prolongé ou inutile, même si des exceptions peuvent s’appliquer lorsque le moteur est nécessaire pour la sécurité, un équipement technique ou une autre raison justifiée.
What is idling?
Idling means keeping a vehicle's engine running while the vehicle remains stationary and the engine is not being used to propel it.
Why should unnecessary idling be avoided?
Unnecessary idling uses fuel, produces exhaust emissions and creates noise without moving the vehicle.
Is idling illegal everywhere?
No. Rules differ between countries and local authorities. Some prohibit unnecessary idling generally, while others restrict it only in particular locations or circumstances.
Does an idling engine still produce exhaust emissions?
Yes. A combustion engine continues to produce exhaust gases while running even though the vehicle is not moving.
Does idling use fuel?
Yes. A combustion engine consumes fuel while it remains running, even when the vehicle is stationary.
Should you leave the engine running while waiting for someone?
Where it is safe and legal to switch the engine off, unnecessary prolonged idling should generally be avoided. Local rules may specifically require the engine to be switched off.
Is waiting at a red traffic light the same as parking with the engine idling?
No. A vehicle temporarily prevented from moving by traffic conditions is different from a vehicle voluntarily parked or waiting. The rules concerning engine shutdown may therefore differ.
Can an engine remain running when vehicle equipment needs power?
Some laws provide exceptions when the engine is genuinely required to operate refrigeration, hydraulic equipment, emergency equipment or another essential system. The precise exceptions depend on local law.
Should you rev the engine while stationary?
Unnecessary engine revving should be avoided because it increases noise, fuel consumption and emissions. It may also be specifically prohibited by local traffic or noise regulations.
Do electric vehicles idle?
Not in the conventional combustion-engine sense. An electric vehicle can remain stationary while switched on without an internal-combustion engine running, although electrical systems such as heating or air conditioning may still consume energy.
