Volvo has developed an extensive training programme for truck drivers based on ‘real-life’ work situations and traffic conditions. This means Volvo will be well-prepared when the new EU directive 2009/59 – the Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) - takes effect from next year.

As of September 2009 the EU directive requires all hauliers to offer their drivers, of vehicles over 3.5 tonnes GVW, an EU-certified 35-hour training programme which must be completed over a 5-year period.

“We welcome this initiative,” says Lennart Pilskog, Head of Public Affairs at Volvo Trucks. “We can base the course on our existing driver training programme, which includes product knowledge, safety and efficiency and already meets most of the forthcoming EU requirements.”

Among other things, the EU directive requires training in efficient driving, safety, health and relevant industry laws and regulations.

“For some time, we’ve been offering our customers courses in fuel-efficient driving, and we’re now launching a safety course. Other training modules will gradually be introduced,” says Mikael Lidhage, Head of Driver Training at Volvo Trucks.

Focus on preventative safety
Volvo has been conducting extensive safety research since 1969 and has built up a unique database of accident causes and how to avoid them. The first new safety course teaches drivers about the dangers and risks related to truck-based transport. Drivers also learn how to prevent accidents and operate their vehicle safely in various work situations.

“We’re convinced that the safety course will improve drivers’ safety at work,” says Mikael Lidhage. “They’ll be less stressed and work with greater safety margins. This will lower the risk of accidents and help reduce costs arising from damage and repairs.”

Efficient driving saves costs and environmental impact
The second course, Efficient Driving, provides knowledge about factors that affect fuel economy and how to handle these factors in practice. This both saves fuel consumption and reduces environmental impact. It also teaches drivers about their vehicle and how to use it optimally, and about how driving is affected by external factors.

“The course gives drivers lots of practical tips that both they and haulage contractors can benefit from,” explains Mikael Lidhage. “Good planning and steady speed result in more relaxed driving, fewer incidents and greater work enjoyment. Hauliers benefit from less downtime and lower costs. The course has very clearly led to fuel savings and a striking reduction in environmentally harmful emissions. Indeed, a five percent reduction in fuel consumption is not unusual. Through our driver training, we help customers increase their profitability while reducing environmental impact.”

Other training modules will be developed as the EU directive is clarified and implemented in each member State’s national legislation.

“As a supplier of comprehensive, advanced transport solutions, we’re always eager to support our drivers and hauliers to help make their activities as rational and safe as possible,” concludes Lennart Pilskog.