Fuel saving moves for test centre
TEES Valley driving instructors have given a mixed reaction to calls by a leading industry body to make fuel efficiency an official part of the driving test.
The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) claims teaching learners to drive efficiently will cut carbon emissions and lead to fuel savings of 5-10%, saving the motorist up to £250 a year. Instructors say while fuel saving is important, they are already teaching eco driving - and road safety must come first.
Middlesbrough driving instructor Steve Firmager, who also founded dual driving controls company Dual Lease, said: “Including fuel efficient driving in the test isn’t a good idea, the test is stressful enough for learners. I’m happy with the way it is now.
“I’ve taught eco driving for years anyway. It’s part of the test now, but you can’t fail for it. It’s difficult to see where they would draw the line on a pass or fail element. If safety is compromised, efficiency goes out the window.”
Guisborough driving instructor John Newton said fuel efficiency should be part of the driving test.
“Fuel efficiency is a big part of reducing carbon, but sometimes it’s not practical. Road safety has to come before anything. If you’re pulling onto the A66 at rush hour, you have to put your foot to the floor.”
Motorbike trainer Steve Gascoigne, from Portrack-based North Eastern Motorcycle Rider Training, said: “The need to save on fuel applies equally to motorbike riders. There’s no doubt we could be more fuel efficient but, with us, it’s actually the opposite - the Driving Standards Agency teaches us to make progress, accelerate away from the traffic.
“There is a big move towards green issues, it’s creeping into our industry. Bikes are far more clean than the average car. Riders would have to be tested differently if fuel efficiency became a pass or fail element. It will be a real step change for car drivers.”
The CBI’s calls are part of a series of recommendations in its report Tackling Climate Change Closer to Home.
Sarah Green, regional director, CBI North East, said: “More than a quarter of the UK’s greenhouse gases come from personal transport, half of which are from cars.”
Other recommendations include speeding up the roll-out of smart meters to homes and council tax rebates for householders who improve their energy efficiency.
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