Fuelling the move to fuel efficiency

I read an article this morning about the efforts of a company in England to improve their fuel efficiency. The company, operating out of Birmingham, is looking to cut their fuel use by as much as 14%.

They installed a system in their vans that tracked their drivers’ behaviour behind the wheel, something most people involved with running fleets is already very familiar with. It was a sizable investment, but with 500 vans, the company could see how much money would be saved if they hit their goal of fuel consumption reduction. Even if they were slightly under it, the amount of money saved would undoubtedly cover the installation of the system.

This in-vehicle tracking concept is different than training. The success of tracking is measured in the long-term, as it might take drivers weeks or months to realize the actual impact of their driving behaviour and permanently change it. Training, on the other hand, can show the driver the impact of their modified behaviour immediately.

Fuel efficiency can be improved through a number of simple ways, including accelerating smoothly, keeping a steady pace, and decelerating by coasting when possible, instead of hard braking. Better shifting techniques can also have a huge impact.

With this in mind, the simulation-based software that we utilize at DriveWise tracks speed, acceleration and brake pressure while a driver participates in one of our scenarios. The instructor and management can see the results as the participant is driving (a sample session is below). Savings in terms of dollars is also presented in real-time.

This process helps set benchmarks. It also drives home the effectiveness of eco-driving, not only for managers, but also the drivers whose behaviour and techniques will be the ultimate measuring stick of success.

Forward thinking and modern software is revolutionizing the way fleet operators view fuel consumption, and has vastly enhanced training and procedures. Whatever way works best for you, saving money and the environment is another way companies will track success in the future.