More than half of businesses operating vehicle fleets do not offer their employees training on safe, cost-efficient driving despite the fact that it saves fuel, according to a study commissioned TomTom Business Solutions.
It found that 54 per cent of companies have not introduced formal training to improve their employees’ driving style – even in the face of rising fuel prices. And 35 per cent do not even offer their drivers fuel-saving tips, even though 83 per cent believe their staff are guilty of speeding.
A more economical driving style typically results in fuel consumption savings of around 14 per cent, according to Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving (SAFED), the Department for Transport’s programme to improve standards among commercial vehicle drivers.
“Appropriate driver training can have a significant impact on a fleet’s cost base,” said Giles Margerison, director UK & Ireland for TomTom Business Solutions.