Fleets are losing thousands of pounds each year due to poor driving habits, which significantly increase fuel costs and routine maintenance expenses, according to data from IAM RoadSmart.
The road safety charity analysed the driving behaviours of 4500 participants in its ‘Driving for Work’ training courses during 2023 and 2024. It found common issues such as speeding, harsh acceleration, sudden braking and poor gear use.
Companies that invest in driver efficiency training saw fuel efficiency improve by up to 14%, leading to average fuel savings of £53,890 a year for a fleet of 100 vehicles. Efficient driving also reduces tyre wear, saving up to £14,400 annually – nearly £70,000 in total, excluding training costs.
IAM RoadSmart also highlights environmental benefits, with potential CO2 savings of 69 tonnes per year.
Policy and standards director Nicholas Lyes said: “Many fleets are missing a key opportunity to cut costs by overlooking poor and unsafe driving habits.”
He added that efficient driving supports safer, calmer driver behaviour, reducing collision risk, cutting downtime and improving employee well-being.
Find out more at https://iamcommercial.co.uk/
