Daimler's eco-training programmes reduces fuel consumption by upto 15 per cent

Mumbai: The increase in the price of all fuels and diesel in particular have sent bus operators' running costs skyrocketing over the last few months.

It is now essential that they make full use of all the possibilities for reducing fuel consumption in order to remain competitive in the face of drastically increased fuel costs. Daimler AG claims that its eco-training programmes helps in the reduction of fuel consumption by eight to 15 per cent by adopting an anticipative driving style.

Daimler Setra TopClass 400On the basis of a touring coach covering 100,000 km per year, this represents almost 5000 litres. And with a fleet of ten buses, this amounts to an annual saving of some 50,000 to 60,000 euros.

The eco-training programmes which form part of the Daimler Omniplus range of services as well as the practical experiences of various fleets confirm that savings such as these can be achieved.

Economical driving techniques reduce variable costs associated with fuel, repairs, maintenance and tyres. "Engine speed down, engine load up" is the motto: in principle, an engine running at low revs in a high gear uses less fuel than it does at high revs in a lower gear, even though the accelerator has to be depressed to a greater extent to deliver extra power when running in high gear.

The eco training sessions also provide useful tips about tyre pressure.