Thousands of company car drivers could receive subsidised driver training over the coming year following a mammoth initiative introduced by Ford.

The scheme is open to any driver within a multi-badge fleet, as long as some vehicles are purchased from Ford.

Training is provided by Drive & Survive and takes part on two levels. Drivers first access a dedicated website and complete a risk management programme.

The responses are analysed and on-road training is then offered to those who qualify.

Andy Neale, general manager at Drive & Survive, said: “Drivers will be required to complete an online driver risk assessment which will create a risk ranking for the individual.

“Those assessed as low risk will require no specific action, those at medium risk will be recommended for Drive & Survive’s online e-learning programme. Those determined as high risk will be put forward for practical, on-road coaching.”

The programme is being offered to Ford customers at a subsidised, fixed price per head, irrespective of what training is required, although the exact prices have yet to be revealed.

Kevin Griffin, director of Ford Fleet, said: “We are keen to assist our clients in complying with their duty of care obligations but there is an associated benefit in the form of cost savings.

“More aware, better informed and more confident drivers tend to avoid damaging incidents, use less fuel, and take more care with company assets.

“Effectively, it’s another way of contributing to a reduction in wholelife costs.”

Fleets interested in the scheme should contact their Ford regional business manger or Emily Nafgzer at Drive & Survive.

Interested parties will then be issued with a code to access the website.