The best way to encourage drivers to reduce fuel usage is to give them a slice of the savings.

If drivers knew they were going to receive a share of the fuel cost savings they achieved, software company Lysanda believes they would immediately change their driving style.

“Van drivers who may be earning less than £20,000 may wonder why they should make an effort to save fuel when it benefits their bosses financially, but not them,” explained Simon Harris, Lysanda’s marketing director.

“Offering a share of the money saved when fuel bills drop means that, as well as helping the environment and putting less of a strain on the fleet budget, drivers get a bonus in their wallet.”

Introducing financial incentives could address the problem faced by operators of recruiting and retaining reliable drivers.

Having extra money in their pay packet each month would give drivers more of an incentive to stay at a job in the current economic conditions, said Mr Harris.

He suggested running a competition for the most fuel-efficient driver.