Training for Tomorrow

Training for Tomorrow: Building Sustainable Habits Behind the Wheel

As the world accelerates toward net zero, the road ahead isn’t just about new technology — it’s about new habits. Electric vehicles (EVs), low-emission zones, and sustainability pledges are powerful tools, but their true potential is unlocked when drivers adopt smarter, more sustainable driving behaviours (International Energy Agency, 2023).

Fleet managers, businesses, and individuals all have a role to play. And with the right training, we can make tomorrow’s roads cleaner, safer, and more efficient — starting today.

Why Sustainable Driving Matters

Sustainable driving isn’t just an environmental checkbox. It directly impacts:

• Energy Efficiency – Every kWh saved in an EV or litre saved in an ICE vehicle cuts costs and emissions (European Environment Agency, 2022).

• Driver Wellbeing – Smooth, considered driving reduces stress and fatigue (Transport for London, 2023).

• Vehicle Longevity – Fewer repairs, less wear on tyres and brakes (Goodyear, 2024).

• Fleet Sustainability Goals – Helps organisations reach Scope 1 & 2 emissions targets faster (Carbon Trust, 2024).

Technology gets us part of the way. Habits take us the rest of the journey.

The Habit Loop Behind the Wheel

Drivers don’t change habits just because they know what to do — they change when they understand why and can practise how (Duhigg, 2012).

The Sustainable Driving Loop:

1. Awareness – Understand the impact of driving style on efficiency.

2. Small Changes – Adopt one or two micro-habits at a time.

3. Feedback – Use telematics, EV dashboards, or apps to track progress.

4. Reinforcement – Recognise and reward improvement.

Five Habits to Train Today

Research shows that small behavioural changes in driving style can lead to substantial reductions in energy use and emissions (AAA, 2023):

1. Gentle Acceleration & Braking

   • Smooth transitions reduce energy use by up to 20% (U.S. Department of Energy, 2023).

   • For EVs, maximise regenerative braking by anticipating stops.

2. Maintain Steady Speeds

   • Use cruise control or speed limiters where safe.

   • Avoid unnecessary speed fluctuations.

3. Optimal Load & Tyre Pressure

   • Extra weight means extra drag.

   • Check tyre pressure monthly for efficiency gains (Michelin, 2024).

4. Route Planning

   • Use navigation with real-time traffic data to avoid congestion.

   • For EVs, plan charging stops efficiently.

5. Climate Control Mindfulness

   • Precondition the cabin while plugged in.

   • Use seat heaters over full cabin heating in cold weather (Energy Saving Trust, 2024).

Practical Training Approaches

• On-Road Coaching – Hands-on sessions with real-time feedback.

• Simulator Training – Safe, repeatable environment for practising techniques.

• Gamified Learning – Leaderboards and challenges to encourage engagement.

• Blended Learning – Combine short e-learning modules with practical driving.

Driving the Future, Today

Sustainable driving is more than an environmental choice — it’s a professional skill. By embedding these habits into daily routines, drivers not only help the planet but also save money, extend vehicle life, and improve safety.

The vehicles of tomorrow are here. It’s time our driving habits matched them.

Referenecs:

1. AAA. (2023). How Driving Habits Impact Fuel Economy. AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

2. Carbon Trust. (2024). Scope 1 and 2 Emissions: Corporate Reporting Guidelines. Carbon Trust Publications.

3. Duhigg, C. (2012). The Power of Habit. Random House.

4. Energy Saving Trust. (2024). EV Energy Efficiency Tips.

5. European Environment Agency. (2022). Transport and Climate Change.

6. Goodyear. (2024). Tyre Wear and Vehicle Longevity.

7. International Energy Agency. (2023). Global EV Outlook 2023.

8. Michelin. (2024). Tyre Pressure and Efficiency. Michelin Technical Guide.

9. Transport for London. (2023). Driver Health and Safety Guide.

10. U.S. Department of Energy. (2023). Efficient Driving Techniques.