Eco-driving feels good

• 200 organisations have been trained under the FuelGood programme to date
• Average fuel savings of 15 % on the day of the training
• Trained drivers are also safer, easier on vehicles and produce less CO2 emissions

The UK's Energy Saving Trust offers practical training courses to organisations in Scotland through the FuelGood programme, a free one-to-one training in energy-efficient driving for employees driving a car or a van.

So far, 200 organisations have been trained under the programme. The training has resulted in fuel and cost savings, as well as reduced CO2 emissions. The average reduction in fuel consumption is 15 % on the day of the training, and 1-6 % over the longer term. This means, on average, € 30-170 saved per driver, per year. Fewer accidents and less wear and tear on vehicles are other benefits of energy-efficient driving.

Key benefits

One of the participating companies, Edinburgh-based mini-coach tour operator Rabbie's, put 60 % of its drivers through the programme. Rabbie's qualified for the FuelGood Recognition Scheme, which allows the company to display the FuelGood logo. The majority of the participating drivers significantly improved their fuel consumption. The training was given on a local circuit. After two laps, nearly 27 % less fuel was consumed. Rabbie's mini-coaches drive a total of 2.5 million kilometers a year collectively, which would mean fuel savings of some € 74 000 a year and CO2 of 121.25 tonnes. Rabbie's expressed interest in giving the FuelGood training to more of its divers.