Convoy to Promote use of Natural Resources Canada’s SmartDriver Program to Help Truck Drivers Save Money and Reduce Carbon Emissions

Convoy encourages use of free eco-driving training course to tens of thousands of truck drivers in North America

We are excited to announce a new way for carriers to reduce carbon emissions by 35%. Starting today, we are promoting Natural Resources Canada’s industry leading SmartDriver for Highway Trucking (SDHT) training course to Convoy’s network of tens of thousands of carriers across North America.

“Top operating costs for trucking fleets are labor and fuel. Additionally, freight providers and their customers face growing calls for increased environmental responsibility,” notes Cheryl Bynum, National Program Manager for the Environmental Protection Agency SmartWay program.  “Companies that employ fuel-efficient driving techniques and operational practices cut fuel costs and create real value by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, helping businesses make progress toward achieving climate goals.” 

Addressing greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty vehicles is critical. Heavy-duty vehicles account for 23.2 percent of GHG emissions from the transportation sector — equal to 437.9 million metric tons of carbon emissions annually in the United States — the fuel-efficient equipment and driving practices featured in the SDHT program can help individual drivers reduce their fuel consumption by up to 35 percent. Additionally, if the training helps reduce carbon emissions by 1%, it is equivalent to preventing 4.4 million metric tons of carbon emissions from entering the atmosphere.

By championing initiatives which reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, Convoy works to contribute to the climate commitments of every business which ships freight. Using less fuel enables the transportation sector to reduce its impact on the environment, and smart fuel management also makes good business sense: it helps truck drivers cut operational and maintenance costs, boost profitability and improve competitiveness. 

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan)’s flagship training program for commercial truck drivers offers tools to prepare drivers for the demands of modern trucking. The SDHT online training materials help drivers and instructors improve their driving efficiency through flexible and convenient education. Topics include a focus on energy-management factors within a driver’s control (idling, start-and-stop techniques, progressive shifting, trip planning and maintenance). Participants learn about fuel-saving driving techniques which can be put into practice immediately, and those who complete the training with a mark of at least 80 percent receive a certificate of achievement.

“Convoy’s mission is to transport the world with endless capacity and zero waste, and Natural Resources Canada’s SmartDriver for Highway Trucking program is an important action toward improving efficiency in the trucking industry,” adds Jennifer Wong, Head of Sustainability. “Built for the lifestyle of owner operators, this modern program will help Convoy continue to reinforce the benefits of fuel efficiency and educate drivers on the impacts of safe, energy-saving driving behaviors.” 

SDHT learning materials are available free of charge to all drivers, fleets and training organizations. Visit SDHT Online to sign up.

About Natural Resources Canada

The Department of Natural Resources, operating under the FIP applied title Natural Resources Canada, is the ministry of the government of Canada responsible for natural resources, energy, minerals and metals, forests, earth sciences, mapping and remote sensing.

About SmartDriver for Highway Trucking

SmartDriver for Highway Trucking (SDHT) web-based training is the flexible choice for trucking professionals on the go. The program provides immediate access to course content anytime and anywhere an Internet connection is available. SDHT is free and helps truckers and trucking companies improve fuel efficiency. The course focuses on fuel-saving techniques within a driver’s control, such as idling, progressive shifting and maintenance. Those who complete the training with a mark of at least 80 percent get a certificate of achievement.