A driver training scheme that can improve fuel consumption by up to 25% and lead to significant vehicle emission reductions has been launched.

IAM Fleet and Drive and Survive developed the Ecolution scheme to help companies reduce fuel bills and their carbon footprint.

Results from trials show that, for an average fleet with around 3,000 drivers, companies could see an average annual fuel bill reduction of more than £300,000 and CO2 savings of up to 3,000 tonnes per annum.

"Fuel and vehicle costs are a core part of a company's fleet expenditure,” said IAM Commercial head of training, Simon Elstow.

“Ecolution teaches simple driving techniques which are easily adopted in everyday driving behaviour, and have a significant impact on fleet running costs."

Driver training can also help reduce stress levels and enhance driver satisfaction through a greater understanding of vehicle operation.

Fuel savings can be calculated on ecolution's online calculator at www.ecolution.uk.com where vehicle type and average annual mileage are compared with current fuel prices to measure current expenditure.

Eco-driving techniques will form a key part of the training and IAM Commercial is the only provider accredited by the Energy Saving Trust to teach these techniques.

"Eco-driving techniques have been a significant part of the overall safer and smarter driver training that IAM Commercial has provided for more than 20 years," said Mr Elstow.