We pioneered driver training in India recognising the vital role of the commercial vehicle driver. In fact, there is empirical proof that proper training can result in 5% or more fuel saving, translating into 3% of total operating cost. Driver training is offered to fleet owners, their drivers, individual drivers cum owners and to drivers in the unorganised sector who appreciate that professionally trained drivers can make a significant difference to their businesses.
Presently, we have three Driver Training Institutes (DTI) in India: at Namakkal (right in the trucking heartland of Tamil Nadu), Burari (near Delhi) and a third one at Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh, that was recently inaugurated by Shri Kamal Nath, Hon’ble Union Minister of Urban Development & Parliamentary Affairs.
At our DTIs, which have evolved as centres of excellence, drivers are trained for life – both on and off the road and are equipped with vehicles, road and terrain of every conceivable configuration, modern infrastructure including a state-of-the-art 6-motion driving simulator and a scientifically designed curriculum.
The training covers all aspects of driving and road management, while also promoting a holistic approach to health, stress control and overall wellbeing. Skills such as safe driving, fuel conservation, repairs and maintenance are taught. Other aspects of life on the road are also highlighted – trouble shooting, fire-fighting, and first aid. The importance of good health is stressed, with special emphasis on prevention of HIV – the most prevalent disease among truckers. Additionally, certificate courses are conducted in specialized subjects, such as handling of hazardous materials. Training is approached from a larger perspective. This comprehensive approach has been responsible for the immense success of the Institutes - in just 12 years, we have put over 500,000 skilled drivers on the highways!
Over the years, Ashok Leyland’s Driver Training Institutes have evolved as Centres of Excellence, where the philosophy is to prepare drivers for life
The Driver Training Institutes approach training from a larger perspective. While skills such as safe driving, fuel conservation, repairs and maintenance are taught, other aspects of life on the road are also highlighted – trouble shooting, fire-fighting and first aid. The importance of good health is stressed, with special emphasis on prevention of HIV – the most prevalent disease among truckers.
