Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/240655
THE DRIVING CHALLENGE Text Reg Crawford, Nic Townsend Illustration Erickton Coasting for pros Coasting is essentially driving without using the accelerator or brake. Developing the ability to use coasting to the fullest potential will raise your game significantly when it comes to applying world-class professional driving standards. What's more, the improvements in fuel economy, wear and tear on the truck and safety that result from using this technique are at least as much, and probably more, than any other single driving behavior. The good news is that coasting is a skill that you can learn and use regardless of the type of truck or application you are driving in. No matter if you are operating a long-haul tractortrailer or a concrete mixer, you can utilize coasting to improve fuel efficiency and safety. 1 Even better, the more you use it, the better the results you will achieve as your ability to read the road ahead improves. "Many drivers are in the habit of accelerating right up until they need to brake," says Scott Sokach, Manager, Driver Training and Development, Volvo Trucks Academy. "We put a lot of energy into the truck just to get it moving, but when we brake, we burn away all of the excess energy, and then need to consume more energy in order to get back up to speed." Coasting is all about letting the momentum and mass of the truck do as much work as possible without intervention from the driver's Back off the accelerator – let the truck do the work Plan well ahead when entering roundabouts or exit ramps. Remember to ease off the throttle, roll as much as possible, and limit the use of your brakes when slowing down. 16 DRIVER 'S DIGEST #1/2014 right foot. Achieving the best possible results involves planning ahead and a high level of situational awareness from the driver, which also promotes safety. "Through coasting, we can better utilize our fuel consumption," adds Sokach. "It's something I would strongly recommend all drivers try, as even the most experienced drivers are surprised by how much fuel they can save." B E N E F ITS Fuel Economy Uptime Safety