Driving style is a major factor in the fuel consumption of a vehicle. Fuel economy driver training is increasingly being recognised as a cost-effective intervention to reduce fuel costs. Discussions with leading industry representatives support the view that 'Driving for economy' and 'Driving safely' are compatible objectives. The EEBPP, therefore, wishes to promote and encourage the development of fuel-efficient driving training programmes.

The work described below will be linked to the new 'Fuel Management Guide', published in February 2001. Further more, the driving standards will form part of the 'Fuel Advisors Scheme' which was announced by the Government in March 2001 as part of the Road Haulage Modernisation fund, totalling £100 million over 3 years.