Auto-Idle
It is the engine dropping to idle by itself on a signal coming from outside. Among the optional modules declared for the GS740 there is lift or auto-steering integration; when the trigger signal arrives the system goes to idle automatically. The operator no longer needs to close the throttle by hand at every pause.
The idea is to tie the speed decision to the state of the machine. For example when the lift is raised at the headland or the auto-steering disengages, the work has stopped; the engine staying at working speed at that moment means only fuel and noise. When the trigger signal arrives the system drops to idle, and when the signal goes away it returns to working speed.
The gain lies in consistency. Done by hand, the operator does not apply it at every pause; done automatically, it is applied every time. It would not be correct to give a percentage for fuel saving, because the gain depends directly on the ratio of the pause time to the total working time.
There are two limits. First, this function is an optional integration, not part of the standard kit. Second, triggering that repeats at very short intervals makes the engine go up and down constantly; this both tires the mechanics and spoils working comfort. The trigger source must be chosen so that it represents situations that are genuinely out of work.
Context in which this term is used: Electronic speed and throttle control on a diesel engine