The leading Czech carrier VCHD Cargo has published results of its cost-efficiency efforts. The company’s strict internal regulations have brought about savings of more than CZK 11 million on fuel and, more importantly, a 6.2% reduction in its carbon footprint.
VCHD Cargo vehicles navigate European roads practically every day and carriage optimisation is, therefore, one of the company’s key priorities. The routes of its regular lines are regularly reviewed in order to eliminate empty capacities and the carrier works with its clients on ways to maximise the efficiency of space usage inside its vehicles. Drivers are motivated to drive economically. “We have defined a set of principles of economic driving for our employees and we have tools for monitoring their application in practice,” says Ing. Pavel Sirotek, the CEO of VCHD Cargo a.s., adding “This includes maximum avoidance of high engine RPM situations, use of idling and cruise control, specific braking strategies and, of course, respecting the speed limit, etc.” Drivers are rewarded for cost-efficient and environment-friendly driving performance. As for driving safety, Pavel Sirotek says this core value is ingrained in every professional driver.
“We approach driving, the fundamental cornerstone of our business, with humility and respect for those around us and we try to instil this ethos in all our colleagues,” Pavel Sirotek explains. The company’s fleet meets the highest emission standards and typically uses modular trailer superstructures that allow the most efficient use of the load space. Furthermore, the company’s branch in Havlíčkův Brod has an alternative source of energy in the form of photovoltaic panels.