A new driver training programme has managed to increase the overall range of fleet plug-in vehicles by an impressive 20%…
Training Can Improve EV Range
Range-anxiety is often cited as a major road block to EV uptake; but it appears training can have a major impact on improving their batteries’ performance. TTC is offering companies a training programme aimed at getting the most out of electric vehicles. Willmott Dixon, a construction business, recently put its own drivers on the course and found the range of its EVs improved by a considerable 20%.
Willmott Dixon has pledged to support the transition to electric motoring. It’s launched a new vehicle scheme to encourage uptake amongst staff and has received hundreds of applications. It’s also installing charging infrastructure at more than a hundred locations.
Gary Ketch, group principal health, safety and environmental inspector, explained his own experiences with the training programme. He said, “during the course we drove on a variety of roads including open country lanes, motorways and in-town traffic”. He added, “the session was adaptive with the instructor explaining how I could improve my driving and range with adjustments to my car’s settings and driving habits”.
Knowledge is (Literally) Power
TTC’s training course is available via a virtual, half-day classroom or via half-day / full-day practical sessions with an instructor. It involves explaining how regenerative braking works and advice on how to improve mpkWh average energy consumption within a few hours. Driving styles are also assessed and recommendations are made in terms of an EV’s optimal settings. More generally, advice is also provided in terms of how to use charging infrastructure and how to access various grants.
Martin Starkey, product manager development and implementation at TTC, explained the reasoning behind the course. He said, “this is the biggest revolution in the automotive industry for over 100 years”. He added, “EVs require a whole new mind-set towards driving and our course helps change driver habits and adapt their approach to driving which has immediate benefits on key elements like range. Hopefully, we can reduce the levels of range anxiety among EV drivers”.
Department for Transport: Electric Cars Make Up Just 1% Of Fleet Vehicles – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/department-for-transport-electric-cars-make-up-just-1-of-fleet-vehicles/
The UK’s First Mobility Hub Has Launched In London – https://autoserve.co.uk/motoring-news/the-uks-first-mobility-hub-has-launched-in-london/
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