Free training for van drivers is being offered by the Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving (SAFED) to participants of a new Department for Transport (DfT) study into the benefits of safe and fuel efficient driver training.

Project managers Aecom are seeking up to 720 drivers to participate whose driving performance will be monitored for 12 months after they receive the free training.

“This innovative study will help identify the fuel and safety benefits of driver training and how they can be maintained,” explained Scott Hardy, project manager. “It is an excellent opportunity for van operators to take advantage of free training that will help them save fuel and save money.”

The data derived from the study will help the DfT gain a greater understanding of the immediate benefits of the SAFED programme.

More importantly, the DfT believes it will also show when the benefits start to diminish and therefore understand when refresher training is most appropriate.

Fleet managers who are interested in taking part should contact Scott Hardy, on 0161 927 8398 or scott.hardy@aecom.com.