The specialist surfacing and reinstatement company is using TomTom’s driver behaviour monitoring tools to underpin a performance improvement programme that, within just three months, has reduced incidents of speeding by 95%. Other incidents of undesirable driving, such as harsh steering and braking, decreased by 65%.
Ferns Surfacing has achieved the savings by educating its drivers with TomTom Active Driver Feedback, which feeds data back to drivers in real time through their navigation devices to improve their style on the move. These devices, combined with tracking and ecoPLUS fuel management units have been installed across the company’s 100-strong vehicle fleet, ranging from 3.5-tonne tippers to 32-tonne hiabs.
At every depot, Ferns offered a weekly incentive for the driver with the best or most improved performance. The worst performing drivers meanwhile have been given one-to-one support and encouragement.
Following the system’s introduction, Ferns has also successfully cut CO2 emissions by 36% and is able to provide demonstrable proof of the improvements.
‘As well as fuel savings of £160,000 within 12 months, the improvements in driver behaviour have also led to a reduction of £50,000 in our insurance premiums,’ said Andy Saunders, Ferns Surfacing contracts director.