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We think that the best people to tell Eco-Safe Driving
As from the 1st of October 2005, changes will be made to the Approved Driving Instructor Part 2 Test of Driving Ability. The change is intended to reflect an "increased awareness and need for economically, environmentally friendly driving". On the drive, the SE will assess the candidates ability to drive in a way that demonstrates the principles of 'eco-safe driving'
The basic principle is that a driver who achieves a 'satisfactory' standard in each topic area will use less fuel, and release less polluting chemicals into the atmosphere, than a driver who drives to an 'unsatisfactory' standard
The initial DSA proposal is that no matter how 'unsatisfactory' the eco-safe driving on test is, no more than one driving fault will be recorded against candidate. The DSA have said that this will be reviewed as time goes by. It could be the case in the future, that a driver error could be recorded each and every time the driver displays a driving style that is not eco-safe, but we'll have to wait for further news on that front
There will be a new fault category on the driving test report form and we'll try to bring you the details as soon as we have them. Clearly, the SE would still be able to record any driving fault which could be considered non eco-friendly, in any number of fault categories, such as use of gears or control
Initially, any fault recorded against 'eco-safe driving' will be marked in one of the spare boxes on form DL 25, with the SE recording why in the box next to it
In truth, I see no real problem with the changes. As a highly trained driver, you will be able to drive in a style which the SE finds completely satisfactory. The onus will be on Part 2 ADI trainers to ensure that their trainees will be ready
Some of the more 'advanced' driving techniques, such as completing manoeuvres with no gas, and good use of acceleration sense, will now become much more important
The following table sets out the areas of the candidate's driving which will be considered against 'eco-safe driving' and what will be considered satisfactory or unsatisfactory by the SE on the test:
Topic
|
Satisfactory
|
Unsatisfactory
|
Hazard Awareness/ Planning
|
identifies hazards in a timely manner allowing adequate time to respond, As a result braking and acceleration are smooth and progressive.
|
Consistently fails to identify hazards in a timely manner and as a result braking and acceleration is rushed and harsh.
|
Compliance with Speed limits
|
Complies with all posted and national speed limits. Ensures that speed is always appropriate to road, traffic and weather conditions.
|
Consistently fails to comply with posted and national speed limits. Drives too quickly for prevailing road, traffic and weather conditions.
|
Starting and moving away
|
Starts engine without excessive use of accelerator. Moves away from stops smoothly.
|
Consistently uses excessive accelerator when starting engine. Moves away from stops harshly - too quickly for conditions.
|
Use of accelerator
|
Uses the accelerator during normal driving in a smooth manner, coordinated with other controls. Demonstrates good acceleration sense.
|
Consistently uses the accelerator during normal driving harshly. As a result progress is made in such a way as to produce an uncomfortable ride. The stability of the vehicle is affected.
|
Gear selection
|
Uses gears sensibly and efficiently. The vehicle is always travelling in an appropriate gear for road and traffic conditions. Uses gears selectively (up and down) and selects highest suitable gear as soon as possible, without causing engine to labour.
|
Consistently fails to use gears effectively and efficiently. Selects inappropriate gears and does not use selective gear selection. Causes engine to over rev or labour due to inappropriate selection.
|
Engine braking
|
Takes advantage of the effects of engine braking when appropriate.
|
Consistently fails to use engine braking -showing an over-reliance on brakes to slow the vehicle.
|
Engine power/torque
|
Takes advantage of the power/torque characteristics of a modern engine. Utilizes higher gears at lower engine speeds, when negotiating hazards, without causing engine to labour.
|
Consistently fails to take advantage of power/torque characteristics of a modern engine. Uses lower gears unnecessarily, not recognizing, when negotiating hazards, that a higher gear may be appropriate.
|
Use of cruise control (when fitted)
|
Uses cruise control in situations where it would be appropriate - without compromising road safety.
|
Consistently fails to use cruise control appropriately.
|
Whatever the DSA decide to do about eco-safe driving in the future, we will have to adapt our driving style to suit
We'll bring you further information as we get it
ADIT Team
