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Mercedes-Benz has announced its plans to provide driver CPC training from next year. The company says it will offer a mix of in-cab and classroom learning from September 2009 at 30 to 40 locations across the country. This will be mostly provided by current Mercedes-Benz dealers, with the rest from existing training companies.

Mercedes-Benz says it will cater for individuals, major, mid-size and small fleets, and provide training for drivers of any make of vehicle. Ian Jones, UK managing  director for Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles says: "Mercedes has a long history of driver training and a reputation for training excellence and we intend to be the leader in CPC training.

"Customers are already planning their approach. It is important these courses encourage drivers to improve, both in terms of fuel efficiency and general skills." Andrew Callaghan, chairman, Skills for Logistics, (SFL) adds: "The CPC is designed to improve road safety and create better skilled lorry drivers. "It will have the effect of improving the image of the industry, and should attract more younger people to the profession".

Mercedes-Benz will offer drivers specially developed demonstration and training vehicles with five, six and seven-seat conversions with conventional, semi-automatic and powershift gearboxes. Classroom training will include video and discussion sessions as well as interactive learning. The company will continue with its existing courses at Barnsley and Milton  Keynes through 2008 and 2009.

The new driver CPC is one of the biggest changes in the transport industry since the LGV driving test was introduced in 1969. It has been designed to encourage safer and more fuel-efficient driving.