Northgate Driver Training service explored

Driver training can be both education and practice to develop vehicle operation skills. For fleet businesses this can mean advanced skills such as HGV and LCV operation, defensive driving, hazard perception, and professional skills (such as emergency response) for experienced drivers.

Training is often done using structured courses, online modules, and in-vehicle instruction to build competence and safety awareness. 

How does driver behaviour affect a fleet business?

Investing in compliant driver behaviour isn’t just about following the rules. It’s a direct way to protect your people, vehicles, and bottom line.

Your drivers are an extension of your business and irresponsible driving can quickly lead to fines and non-compliance with the DVSA. In addition, did you know that driving at 80mph can use up to 25% more fuel than 70mph? (source)

Road safety and faster vehicle depreciation

Beyond the financial impact, poor driving standards can harm your company’s reputation, particularly when branded vehicles are involved, undermining trust with customers and the wider public – it may even harm your ability to win tenders.

From a road safety perspective, risky driving behaviours increase the likelihood of accidents, putting drivers and other road users at risk. Additionally, loaded vans have been shown, on average, to have an extended braking distance of two metres when stopping from 30mph, and five metres from 60mph (source). Collisions and harsh driving also take a toll on vehicles, leading to more frequent repairs requiring replacement parts, longer periods of vehicle off-road time, and higher maintenance costs.

Over time, the wear and tear contributes to faster vehicle depreciation which can increase the overall cost of running your fleet.

Reduce risks to your business with Northgate

The Northgate Safe Driver solution is designed to deliver practical and measurable benefits for both drivers and fleet managers. And it’s also available for YourFleet (non-Northgate vehicles).

Training is tailored to your business needs and can be delivered remotely or in person, making it easy to fit around busy operations. A flexible approach ensuring your drivers receive guidance related to their vehicles, working environments, and daily challenges.

Embed safe driving best practices to reduce road risks whilst improving overall standards of driving across your entire fleet. Improved driving behaviours lead to reduced wear and tear, helping to extend vehicle lifecycles, reduce maintenance costs, and minimise downtime.

Fleet managers also gain greater visibility and control. With direct benefits such as:

• Driver risk profiling - Highlights areas for improvement, enabling proactive intervention before issues escalate.
  
  
• Automated driver licence checks (also available for grey fleets) - Support ongoing compliance, reducing administrative burden while helping to ensure your fleet remains safe, legal, and fully compliant always.
  
  
• Support EV transition - Targeted training to increase driver confidence and buy-in by addressing common concerns around range, charging, and vehicle performance.