How a 4-step coaching process boosts driver MPG
Driver MPG Improvements Guide by, Rachel Pearson, Advanced FORS Practitioner, Fleetmaxx Solutions
Achieving consistent MPG improvements across a fleet is rarely about telling drivers what to do. In my experience as a Key Account Manager and Advanced FORS Practitioner, real and lasting fuel efficiency gains happen when drivers are actively involved in the process.
That is why I have been working alongside David Somers FCILT, Managing Director at Road Skills, to introduce a simple, proven 4-step coaching process that helps drivers take ownership of their own MPG improvements. This approach is practical, achievable and fully aligned with driver engagement, compliance and continuous improvement.
Why driver-led MPG improvements matter
Fuel remains one of the largest controllable costs for fleet operators. While technology and telematics play an important role, driver behaviour continues to have a significant impact on real-world MPG performance.
When drivers understand how their actions affect fuel use, and are involved in setting their own improvement goals, MPG improvements are more likely to be sustained over the long term.
Step one: calculate achievable MPG improvements
Start by identifying what even a small improvement could mean for your fleet. A 3 percent MPG improvement is highly achievable for most operators and can translate into significant annual fuel savings.
To begin:
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Calculate what a 3 percent MPG improvement would be worth financially
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Select just three drivers to take part in the initial driver-led working group
Keeping the group small helps build confidence and early success.
Step two: involve drivers in fuel efficiency coaching
Run a short 15 to 20 minute coaching session with the selected drivers together. This should be a discussion, not a presentation.
Ask one simple question:
“What three driving techniques would help you achieve better MPG?”
Drivers often already understand which behaviours lead to MPG improvements. The difference is that they are now identifying them themselves, which builds ownership and accountability.
Step three: set driver-owned MPG improvement goals
Share each driver’s recent MPG data and ask:
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What MPG improvement do you think you could realistically achieve?
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How long do you think it will take to reach that target?
Agree the MPG improvement goal together. Because the target is driver-led rather than imposed, it feels realistic and achievable, increasing the likelihood of success.
Step four: measure, review and reinforce MPG improvements
Track progress weekly at first, then monthly once driving habits begin to stabilise. Provide clear, constructive feedback so drivers can see how their behaviour is directly linked to MPG improvements.
Where appropriate, consider a fuel-saving incentive or recognition scheme to reinforce positive change.
Why this 4-step process delivers MPG improvements
This approach works because it is based on behaviour, not enforcement.
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Drivers take ownership when they set their own MPG improvement goals
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Clear goals naturally encourage drivers to adjust their driving techniques
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Regular feedback reinforces positive habits and long-term MPG improvements
Rather than being told what to change, drivers become part of the solution.
Final thoughts on driver-led MPG improvements
Sustainable MPG improvements are achieved through engagement, understanding and shared responsibility. This 4-step driver coaching process provides a simple framework that supports fuel efficiency, compliance and continuous improvement across your fleet.
If you would like to explore how driver coaching, vehicle tracking, Toolbox Talks, AdBlue or wider fuel and compliance strategies could help deliver MPG improvements within your operation, we would be very happy to discuss it further.
About Road Skills
Road Skills was launched in 1991 by David Somers, who recognised that many operators were not receiving the support and training they needed to raise standards and remain compliant.
Today, Road Skills is widely recognised as one of the UK’s foremost specialists in occupational road safety within the commercial transport sector. Their consultants bring years of hands-on experience dealing with complex road safety challenges and supporting fleet operators to raise and maintain standards.
That knowledge has been distilled into ongoing Toolbox Talks, creating a structured Professional Development Plan that supports both compliance and continuous improvement. The 4-step MPG coaching process fits perfectly within this approach.
