DIAmond advanced test goes eco: nifty and thrifty!

The DIAmond Advanced Motorist Test is the first advanced driving test to include eco-safe driving techniques. Under the latest EU directive on driving licences, eco-safe driving techniques are now built into the government test taken by would-be driving instructors – and it makes sound sense to extend this level of skill and awareness to all drivers.

The EU directive reflects the increased awareness and need for economical and environmentally friendly driving without any compromise on safety.

Typical examples of eco-safe driving which in general save fuel and reduce harmful emissions include:

Using cruise control if it is fitted to the vehicle and if road, weather and traffic conditions are suitable for a fixed speed to be maintained;
When it becomes evident that it will be necessary to slow down, reducing speed at an early stage by lifting off the accelerator, rather than braking at the last moment;
Keeping a vehicle on the move whenever and wherever it is safe to do so, rather than stopping and moving away from rest continually;
Double de-clutching or changing gear in a way which requires revving the engine both use fuel unnecessarily and are therefore not considered eco-safe;
Using the power or torque characteristics of an engine to drive in the highest gear possible without causing the engine to labour.

"These are only examples of eco-safe driving," says DIAmond Chief Examiner Colin O’Connell, "but they are useful guidelines and demonstrate the type of approach we now expect. It is worth emphasising, though, that safety should never be compromised, so there will be times when eco-safe driving techniques will not be appropriate."