CA: SmartDrive Eco-Driving Training Video Takes First Place at APTA 2013 AdWheel Awards

SmartDrive Systems has won first place at the APTA 2013 AdWheel Awards in the “Advertisement – Advocacy/Awareness” category for its Eco-Driving Training video for public transit.

Based on research and analysis of actual transit fleet driving maneuvers recorded by the SmartDrive Safety program, the video provides operators with specific tips and techniques for reducing fuel use and lowering emissions that can result in savings of up to $3,400 per vehicle annually.

“We thank APTA for this award, which raises awareness of fuel economy and safety issues in public transit while teaching industry professionals how they can be addressed in an easy-to-implement solution,” said SmartDrive CEO Steve Mitgang. “We see this award as further validation of our innovative approach, leveraging video and vehicle data to identify and prioritize the riskiest driving skills that need to be addressed, helping agencies not only improve the safety of their fleets but also lower operational costs.”

Using both live footage and animation, SmartDrive’s Eco-Driving Training video introduces SmartDrive Safety’s driving techniques that promote safety and fuel efficiency within public transit. Driving “the green way” includes taking a soft approach when braking or accelerating, staying within the speed limit, easing in and out of curves, anticipating traffic changes and avoiding excessive idling. SmartDrive has found that using these techniques has helped top operators to significantly improve driving skills, increase safety and improve MPG nearly 19 percent.