With over a decade of experience in driver training, Darius Visakavičius, currently Group Manager at Baltic Transline, has observed how both training and technology can transform fuel efficiency.
In this interview with RoadMaster VR, he shares insights into recent advancements and how drivers can best utilize today’s sophisticated trucking tech to drive greener and more economically.
Q: Darius, you’ve been in the ECO driving field for over 10 years. What changes have you seen in truck technology to support fuel efficiency?
D: In the past decade, truck manufacturers have made significant strides in reducing CO₂ emissions. For example, automatic gearboxes have largely replaced mechanical ones, making shifting smoother and more efficient. Basic cruise control has evolved into smart cruise control systems that adjust to the road’s terrain by using integrated maps to predict upcoming hills and slopes, which helps lower fuel consumption. Aerodynamic improvements and other innovations have also become standard, all aimed at reducing fuel use and minimizing the CO₂ footprint.
Q: With these advancements, can we assume any driver will automatically save fuel with a new truck?
D: Not entirely. But for now, the driver has not been replaced and still has a lot of influence in driving the truck. Even after all the improvements, different drivers driving the same truck, carrying the same weight of cargo, on the same route, can use very different amounts of fuel, sometimes the difference can be as much as 50 percent. It mostly depends on the driver's attitude, understanding of the truck's capabilities and sometimes outdated stereotypes. Technology alone doesn’t guarantee efficiency - driver behavior is still key.
Q: So, what role does driver training play in this?
D: Proper driver education is essential for transportation companies. It’s not enough to just buy the latest truck, drivers must understand how the truck’s systems work and how to maximize its capabilities. Comprehensive training enables drivers to adopt eco-driving principles, leading to fuel savings and sustainable habits that benefit both the company and the environment. It also enhances road safety.
Q: Darius, you currently work at Baltic Transline, one of Lithuania’s leading transport and logistics companies. Could you tell us more about how the company approaches ECO driving?
D: At Baltic Transline, we have a strong commitment to sustainability and fuel efficiency. With a fleet of 1,300 trucks and over 2,000 drivers, we’re actively working on minimizing our environmental impact by focusing on ECO driving initiatives. This means regularly training drivers to save fuel, using technology to track and improve driving habits, and keeping up with vehicle maintenance. Our goal is to reduce CO₂ emissions and lower fuel costs across our entire fleet. Going green isn’t just a mission - it’s a strategic priority that we believe benefits both the environment and our business.
Q: How can VR training platforms like RoadMaster VR benefit transport companies like Baltic Transline in enhancing eco-driving practices?
D: VR training platforms like RoadMaster VR offer transport companies like Baltic Transline an immersive approach to eco-driving training. Drivers can practice fuel-saving techniques in realistic, risk-free scenarios, receiving immediate feedback on their choices' impact on fuel efficiency and safety. This hands-on training can lead to significant fuel cost savings, improved driver performance, and a stronger commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Q: How do you think VR training could impact fuel savings for fleets?
D: With VR training, drivers can actively practice fuel-saving techniques like maintaining optimal speeds and anticipating stops. This hands-on experience can lead to substantial savings—up to €4,400–€4,900 per driver annually, based on similar training outcomes. It’s a strong example of how targeted training can improve ECO-driving performance across fleets.
Q: What would you say to transport companies looking to reduce fuel consumption and emissions in their fleets?
D: Investing in technology is essential, but so is investing in drivers. Even with fuel-efficient trucks, well-trained drivers play a huge role in cutting costs and emissions. ECO-driving training, understanding truck features, and breaking old habits are key. VR platforms are especially valuable, offering realistic practice and instant feedback. While results may vary by driver, the potential for fleet-wide improvement is significant.
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At RoadMaster VR, we share Darius’ commitment to effective driver training for ECO driving. Our VR training platform allows drivers to learn in realistic, interactive environments. Launching in Q1 2025, our ECO driving module is designed to teach drivers to fully leverage advanced trucking technologies and adopt fuel-saving practices. With RoadMaster VR, companies can cut CO₂ emissions, save on fuel costs, and make meaningful progress toward sustainability goals.
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