Know-how or know-why? The role of hybrid electric vehicle drivers' acquisition of eco-driving knowledge for eco-driving success

Arend, Matthias G.; Franke, Thomas; Stanton, Neville A. · 2018 · OpenAlex-citations

DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2018.10.009

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Summary

This study investigates the role of eco-driving knowledge acquisition in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) drivers, specifically distinguishing between "know-how" (perceived strategy knowledge) and "know-why" (technical system knowledge). While HEVs offer potential for sustainable transport, their real-world energy efficiency depends heavily on driver behavior. Previous research identified that drivers acquire knowledge through interacting with the vehicle or external sources, but quantitative data on how these acquisition processes relate to fuel efficiency were lacking. The authors aimed to quantify how drivers acquire these two knowledge types via testing, monitoring, or reading, and how these factors influence fuel efficiency. The researchers conducted a survey of 121 experienced HEV drivers (primarily Toyota Prius owners) recruited from an online fuel logging database. Participants completed a questionnaire assessing their eco-driving motivation, perceived strategy knowledge, technical system knowledge, and their use of three acquisition methods: acquisition by testing (systematically trying driving behaviors), acquisition by monitoring (observing system feedback), and acquisition by reading (using manuals or websites). Fuel efficiency was measured using standardized indicators derived from logged consumption data. The relationships between these variables were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). The results revealed distinct patterns in knowledge acquisition and effectiveness. Perceived strategy knowledge was significantly predicted by acquisition by testing and acquisition by reading, but not by monitoring. In contrast, technical system knowledge was significantly predicted only by acquisition by reading; neither testing nor monitoring had a significant effect. Crucially, while perceived strategy knowledge showed no significant relationship with fuel efficiency when controlling for other factors, technical system knowledge was a significant positive predictor of fuel efficiency. Furthermore, acquisition by reading had a significant indirect effect on fuel efficiency mediated by technical system knowledge. Eco-driving motivation was positively related to acquisition by testing and monitoring, but not reading. The findings suggest that understanding the technical dynamics of the HEV system ("know-why") is more critical for achieving fuel efficiency than merely believing one knows how to drive efficiently ("know-how"). Because technical system knowledge is acquired primarily through reading rather than vehicle interaction, the authors conclude that eco-driving support systems should prioritize facilitating the acquisition of technical system knowledge, such as through tutoring systems or educational feedback, rather than relying solely on real-time monitoring or testing. This highlights the importance of declarative knowledge over procedural belief in optimizing HEV energy consumption.

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• eco driving