NVD, the award winning vehicle transport specialists have recently won the Michelin sponsored Environmental award presented by the Fleet Transport Irish Hauliers Association for 2009.The award was won as a direct result of NVD’s ongoing commitment to reduce its environmental impact through innovation and use of the most up-to-date environmentally friendly technology.
NVD have introduced a number of initiatives to assist in reducing their overall environmental impact:
· Ecodrive training for all drivers and · The use of Pure Plant Oil (PPO) in NVD vehicles
Ecodrive training
In 2008 NVD reviewed its usage of fuel, tyres and environmental impact. NVD opted to introduce “Ecodrive program” to reduce cost, usage and impact.
All NVD drivers have undergone the Ecodrive programme, which has resulted in a major reduction of fuel consumption throughout NVD.
There are five basic rules to eco-driving: · Shift up as soon as possible · Maintain a steady speed · Anticipate traffic flow · Decelerate Smoothly · Check the tyre pressure frequently
Main Benefits of Inroducing Ecodrive
Local Environment : ECODRIVING reduces noise pollution. The engine noise of one car driving at 4000 rpm equals the engine noise of 32 cars at 2000 rpm.
Costs and Safety: ECO-Driving has resulted in reduced fuel, maintenance costs, vehicle consumables (e.g. brake and clutch linings) and RTA’s and transport vehicle damages but most importantly reduced driver fatigue.
Other factors to minimizing traffic /use of vehicles; NVD depots are strategically placed to minimise travelling between pick up and final destination of vehicles.
Emphasis is put on maximising load factor to ensure there is no “empty running “ of vehicles. A bespoke computer system aids the logistics department in maximising vehicle utilisation and traffic reduction.
Pure Plant Oil (PPO)
In conjunction to introducing the Eco driver program NVD also uses PPO (Pure plant oil) fuel in over 20 of its vehicle transporters. With a further 15 Transporters due to be converted before 2010. The PPO is produced and sourced locally in the southeast which further reduces carbon footprint
NVD are continuing to find new and innovative ways to become more and more green and winning environmental fleet transport Irish haulier of the year 2009 reflects this achievement.
