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Learning saving lesson
AS OIL supplies tightened in Scotland this week and prices hit record highs at the pumps, one local haulage firm has sent its drivers back to school in a bid to slash costs.
Prestons of Potto, near Swainby, North Yorkshire, is employing several trainers to teach “eco-driving techniques” to her employees, to help keep costs down.
“Not that our drivers aren’t good, but they could be better,” said Anne Preston, chairman of the transport firm.
“For instance, two of the biggest factors in wasting fuel are letting the engine idle unnecessarily or not always changing gear correctly.
“We have had to look extremely carefully at our drivers because our wagons get only 8mpg - half a mile to the gallon extra would make a substantial difference to our fuel bill.”
The company has a fleet of more than 200 heavy goods vehicles in five depots around the country, with around 100 of them, plus at least 110 drivers, at the Swainby site.
She estimates the company could shave about £400,000 off their annual fuel bill of £7m if half a mile to the gallon could be saved, but admits this will be a major job.
However, she adds that it’s vital: “Yesterday we had several wagons in Scotland and it was extremely difficult to find fuel for our lorries.”
She said fuel prices had leapt “unbelievably” in the past few weeks, and prices will rise in the shops. “As hauliers we have no option but to pass the costs on.”
