'Smarter driving' techniques introduced into driving test
Wed 10 September 2008
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The Government has announced that learner drivers will be trained in 'eco-safe' driving techniques as a part of their driving test. Jim Fitzpatrick, the transport minister, said that an extra £3 million will be devoted to promoting 'smarter driving' techniques to help all motorists save on fuel costs. Advice will also be provided on purchasing more fuel efficient cars.
Learner drivers will not be passed or failed on the assessment, but they will receive the results from their examiner and be given a leaflet on how to adopt 'smarter driving' techniques in their future driving careers. Examiners say they have not ruled out the possibility the eco-test being made a failure issue in future.
The new practical assessment has been introduced by the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) to comply with European Union legislation. The assessment, aimed at creating a new generation of drivers with fuel saving and economy in mind, has already been introduced in Germany.
Jim Fitzpatrick said: "To help the next generation of motorists drive in a way that is better for their wallets and the environment, the driving test will now assess how successfully they follow fuel efficient and eco-safe driving advice."
The European Climate Change Programme has calculated that if all drivers across the EU adopted eco-driving, they would save 25 billion litres of fuel and cut CO2 emissions by at least 50 million tonnes a year. The DSA estimates that an average driver travelling 12,000 miles a year would save around £150 if they adopt the 'smarter driving' principles.
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