A new training module designed to help drivers familiarise themselves with electric vans has been introduced by RED Corporate Driver Training.
The company said the course had been launched in response to the UK Government allowing drivers with a standard category B licence to drive electric vans weighing up to 4.25t, with a requirement for five hours of extra training being removed.
The course is said to cover topics such as the impact of the vans’ increased weight on handling and braking, as well as familiarisation with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
As well as taking place at RED’s Donington Park training centre, the sessions will be offered nationwide at traffic-free locations.
RED head of corporate Greg Ford said: “This new breed of larger electric vans present a challenge to drivers and we believe that companies should acknowledge that and ensure their drivers receive some basic introductory training to ensure road safety.
“While the transition from an ICE van to an EV one may not appear to be significant, there are key differences which could catch out an unaware driver. One of the main ones to look out for is regenerative braking, which slows the vehicle when the driver lifts off the accelerator – this instant retardation force could be an issue on faster roads.
“E-LCVs also accelerate much more quickly than traditional diesel vans, so again drivers need to be familiar with the performance of the vehicle away from traffic.
“Finally, because E-LCVs are so quiet, drivers need to be trained on their hazard awareness skills – especially around pedestrians who may step out into the road without hearing a vehicle approaching.”
As well as physical training, RED is also offering an online training module through its SafetyFirst risk management platform.
