How a vehicle is driven has a significant impact on fuel use. The ultimate example of fuel efficiency driving, combined with the latest in hybrid technology, is reflected in the MPG results of a group of drivers called Hypermilers. Fuel performance of over 125 miles per US gallon has been consistently achieved using efficiency driving techniques in the Honda Insight.

All fleets should have driver training programs to ensure drivers use fuel efficiency techniques. For some fleets, such as urban buses, fuel savings of as much as 30 per cent have been demonstrated achieving a dramatic reduction in costs and emissions.

Drivers should receive ongoing training - when initially hired, for specific types of vehicles and equipment, and on a regular basis. Training will upgrade skills through courses such as defensive driver training, collision avoidance, winter skid control and emergency vehicle driving techniques.

Several different SmartDriver programs are offered for specific applications by the Federal Government:

• SmartDriver for Forestry Trucks
• SmartDriver for Highway Trucking
• SmartDriver for Motor Coach
  
• SmartDriver for Transit