Vehicle downtime poses a significant cost and operational challenge for commercial vehicle fleets. Consequently, driver training and risk management have seen notable increases in demand in recent years, as businesses look to minimise time off road.
According to Grosvenor, commercial vehicle operators are investing in targeted initiatives that will deliver a return on investment through improved vehicle uptime and availability.
“Even the smallest incident, such as driver hitting a fixed object or damaging a wing mirror can result in a van being off road for extended periods of time,” said Lee Brown, Grosvenor’s managing director.
“By improving driving standards through risk assessments and training programmes, we can keep vehicles where they belong – on the road and earning their keep.
“Regular online driver risk assessments will identify potential areas of concern and tailor training accordingly. This may involve online modules focusing on areas such as hazard perception, safe following distances, and manoeuvring safely.
“In-vehicle, on-road defensive driver training can further enhance these skills, equipping drivers with the knowledge and techniques to anticipate and avoid potential hazards.”
As a leading commercial vehicle contract hire and fleet management specialist, Grosvenor funds and manages a diverse range of light commercial fleets across many different sectors.
Grosvenor advises that it’s not just unsafe driver behaviour behind the wheel that is resulting in vehicles being damaged and unavailable, there are other key factors too.
“Loads that are not properly secured can shift during transit, affecting the vehicle’s handling, potentially leading to rollovers or loss of control,” continues Lee. “Whilst, of course being illegal and attracting significant fines, overloading a vehicle also puts undue stress on the tyres, brakes, and suspension, increasing the risk of mechanical failure. Drivers should be trained in safe loading practices, including weight limits, load distribution, and the correct use of securing equipment such as straps and nets.
“The number of electric vans being delivered is also on the rise, and we are seeing many drivers being given an EV having never driven one before. In fact, some have never even driven an automatic, and its vital to give them full training to avoid any incidents.”
A proactive approach to vehicle safety and compliance is also essential, and this includes regular and timely maintenance.
Grosvenor’s pioneering Advanced Remote Connectivity (ARC) solution has revolutionised time off road. Activated remotely, with no device installation, Grosvenor connects each vehicle’s on board computer to its OSCAR fleet management system. This gives its maintenance team full visibility of all engine warning lights and service countdowns to ensure the swift resolution of issues and adherence to service schedules. It also reports on driving style which is essential for ongoing training and improved driving standards. This proactivity not only improves vehicle safety and compliance but can lead to a further 20% reduction in time off road.
“A comprehensive risk management solution will pay dividends in the long run,” said Lee.” It’s for this reason why we are seeing such a marked increase in schemes being implemented as businesses do everything in their power to keep their van fleets moving.”
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