Full briefing for Fuel Duel
Page 17
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Vour correspondent J Midgley of Castleford (CM 14-20 August 1997) raises a good point when he asks about published information to help drivers to get the best fuel consumption out of their trucks.
One of the important things which the ERF Fuel Duel has shown us is that driving techniques differ greatly among even the most experienced professionals. Far from blaming drivers for poor fuel consumption, we are more concerned about driver training/re-training.
There is no doubt that modern, hi-tech engines such as that in the ERF ECI I require a different technique from less advanced drivetrains. It would be wrong to blame a driver who has not been given a full briefing on his new vehicle.
As part of the ERF Fuel Duel, the driver is supposed to be given this instruction before the Duel starts. Also,
as part of the Fuel Duel introduction pack, we have produced a booklet called Pro Driver. This introduces the driver to the MI1 engine and gives a number of hints and tips on best driving practice for economical running. It also introduces the driver to the Celect Road Relay in-cab display. This is a driver aid which helps to get the optimum performance from the vehicle.
This really adds a whole new dimension to professional driving. The pack should be in the cab at the start of every Duel.
I will gladly send a copy of the Pro Driver booklet to any fellow professional who asks for one.
Derek Rafferty, Road test engineer, ERF Trucks.