Through the adoption of eco-driver training, in conjunction with vehicle monitoring technology, this study demonstrates the potential to successfully reduce CO₂ emissions that are generated through the operation of a fleet of municipal vehicles in the City of Calgary, Alberta. This study represents a novel means for the City of Calgary to enhance their environmental and economic sustainability through a measurable reduction in climate altering vehicle emissions. 

Objectives

• Assess the effectiveness of eco-driver training on reducing (i) harmful vehicle emissions and (ii) fuel consumption within the City of Calgary’s fleet of vehicles.
• Examine how two differing approaches to eco-driver training (i.e. a 1 hour in-class session versus a 3 hour in-class and in-vehicle session) influences the degree of positive behavioural change.
• Evaluate the difference in CO₂ emissions between gasoline and hybrid vehicles within the City of Calgary’s fleet.

Methodology

Phase I: Baseline data was collected prior to eco-driver training by installing the CarChips® into 15 fleet vehicles in the Department of Development and Building Approvals in the City of Calgary. The CarChips® recorded data from the vehicle’s diagnostic computer, including: average and total daily trip times; average and total trip distance; number of accelerations and decelerations; and idling time.

Phase II: Fleet drivers took part in eco-driver training courses provided by Green Communities Canada.

Phase III: The CarChips® were reinstalled into the vehicles to assess the effectiveness of the training on improving driver behaviour.