Now drivers have to pass green test

Britain follows the Dutch with fuel-saving exam for new motorists to cut pollution emissions

After surviving an emergency stop and three-point turn, driving test candidates will in future have to show they can save fuel as well. Fuel efficiency – or eco-driving – is to be made part of the driving test from 2008 in a move ministers hope will cut polluting emissions, save money on bills and make driving safer.

Learner drivers will be taught tips such as accelerating and braking less strongly and changing gears sooner and be assessed on their abilities as part of the practical exam.

Transport Secretary Alistair Darling, said candidates would not pass or fail on eco-driving, but wanted it ‘to become as much a part of learning to drive as the three-point turn or checking your mirrors. Small changes like this can make a big difference to the effect drivers have on the environment.’

The government move follows similar initiatives in other countries, including the Netherlands, where the ‘New Driving’ programme estimates that drivers can cut fuel use by nearly a third. The development comes after ministers faced criticism for failing to meet carbon reduction targets, especially from road transport, because traffic is growing and modern family vehicles are as powerful as the 1960s Monte Carlo rally cars. New car efficiency ratings are also based on model driving, which most people do not practise, claim the Dutch scheme experts.

Guardian