The City of Cape Town recently recognized the top 20 fleet drivers who have successfully implemented smart driving practices and improved their driving behavior. The commendation certificates were presented during a ceremony at the Smart Living Training Centre in Green Point on June 9, 2023.
Promoting Responsible Driving Habits with the Smart Driver Programme
The Smart Driver programme has been actively promoting responsible driving habits among the city’s fleet drivers since January 2018. The programme equips drivers of City-owned vehicles with the skills necessary to develop sustainable driving styles and habits. To date, the Smart Driver programme has trained over 8,900 drivers and provided them with competency certificates.
The Smart Driver programme’s objectives are to improve driving skills, reduce fuel consumption, cut carbon dioxide emissions, lower maintenance costs and decrease accidents. The On-Board Computer system is used to monitor driver behavior, tracking aspects like harsh braking, idling, speeding, harsh cornering, fuel usage, CO2 emissions, and road safety.
A Mandatory Training Programme for All City Fleet Drivers
The training programme is mandatory for all City fleet touch key drivers across all directorates. The Environmental Management Department within the Spatial Planning and Environment (SPE) Directorate leads the programme. Deputy Mayor and Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment, Alderman Eddie Andrews, emphasized the importance of the programme. He stated that smart driving improves performance and safety while reducing running costs and environmental impacts.
Aligned with the City’s Environmental Strategy
The Smart Driver programme is aligned with the City’s Environmental Strategy, which prioritizes resource efficiency and low carbon development in all aspects of the City’s work. The programme aims to change drivers’ habits, mindsets, and styles by providing staff with the necessary skills to develop sustainable driving habits. Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, noted that the programme will not only improve drivers’ safety and save the City and themselves money, but also create a positive impact on the environment.
The Programme Benefits
The Smart Driver Programme strives to cultivate responsible driving behavior that results in improved driver safety, accident prevention, efficient and cost-effective vehicle operation, reduced carbon emissions, extended vehicle lifespan, an enhanced public image, and the establishment of vocational pride.
The Overall Winner
Jeffrey Josephs from Metropolitan Police Services, Safety and Security Directorate, was the overall winner of the Smart Driver programme. He received a trophy during the ceremony held at the Smart Living Training Centre. This initiative demonstrates the City’s commitment to promoting sustainability and safety among its citizens by incentivizing responsible driving practices.
