Drivetech helps fleets accelerate EV journey
Drivetech, the UK’s leading driver training organisation and part of the AA, has launched a suite of training products dedicated to electric mobility. Suitable for anyone who drives an electric vehicle (EV) for business, its online, classroom-based and on-the-road workshops are helping fleets embrace electrification.
With the government ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles set for 2030, there is a nation of company car and van drivers about to get behind the wheel of an EV for the first time, if they’re not already driving one. Training is a vital element in the success of an EV transition plan and, ultimately, protecting the safety of drivers and other road users.
Drivetech now has a range of more than 20 different EV driver training interventions in a range of formats with different content, covering everything from vehicle technology and road safety, through to charging infrastructure. The organisation also works with businesses directly to develop bespoke training packages, based on their individual needs and requirements.
The latest addition to its suite of EV driver training options, ‘EV Co-Driver’ is due to launch next month and is a brand-new way of communicating with drivers on the topic of electrification. An immersive way to educate drivers on new technology and best practice behind the wheel, EV Co-Driver provides a completely flexible and engaging approach to driver training through a series of short but sweet animations which can be accessed via smartphones or portable devices.
Central to the transition to EVs is driver mindset and Drivetech is expertly placed to support businesses in this area. Fleets need to support drivers so they feel confident to embrace the new technology and safe when on the road. It’s drivers which have a comprehensive understanding of the technical differences between EVs and vehicles with internal combustion engines and the infrastructure that supports EVs that will meet this criteria.
Leo Taylor, head of product solutions at Drivetech, said: “Manufacturers, fleets and private motorists are preparing for electric mobility in a variety of different ways, however at Drivetech our focus is ensuring drivers are educated to the unique operation, maintenance and driving strategies required to maximise safety and efficiency. We understand the perceived barriers around EV adoption and we are committed to supporting drivers with our targeted training.
“Complete with EV familiarisation, on-road sessions, driver workshops and much more, our resources and course portfolio will help engage and educate drivers, taking them on an EV transition journey to a greener, safer and more sustainable fleet. We’re really excited about the upcoming launch of EV Co-Driver, with 17 new and varied modules, and the impact this will make on fleet training.”
As part of its offering, Drivetech has been working closely with ABB, a leading global technology company that is working to achieve a more productive and sustainable future. Working collaboratively to develop ABB’s EV transformation journey, Drivetech has developed and delivered a bespoke EV familiarisation course for its company drivers.
David Day, HSE manager at ABB UK, commented: “ABB have been working collaboratively with Drivetech on our EV transformation journey. This has included developing and delivering a new EV familiarisation course for our company car drivers. Initially delivered to our senior management team, the feedback was excellent with the training well delivered, and the content relevant. We hope to roll out the training to our driving community over the coming months.
“We feel reassured that we have a proactive driver training partner in Drivetech; especially as we implement our sustainability strategy, which our EV ambitions form a key part of.”
As part of a range of resources from Drivetech, it has just created a ‘Free EV Guide to Charging Infrastructure’ which can be shared with fleet managers and their driving communities. For more information, visit: https://www.drivetech.co.uk/global-business-fleet-solutions/course/ev-uk-charging-infrastructure/
Fleets can benefit from a range of free educational resources, visit: www.drivetech.co.uk/downloads/.
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