Improving the energy efficiency of road transport : the case of eco-driving in the Netherlands

In this article we present the results of an in-depth ex-post evaluation of the Dutch Eco-driving program carried out within the framework of the AID-EE1 project which has been supported by the Intelligent Energy for Europe Program. The Eco-driving program is a policy package with the objective to stimulate more energy-efficient purchase and driving behaviour. While focusing on behavioural aspects, the program is complementary to the ACEA covenant which has purely technical objectives, i.e. making cars more efficient. The analysis shows that: Between 1999 and 2004 energy savings of 1.3 – 3.0 PJ (corresponding with 0.1-0.2 million tonnes of CO2 emission reductions) have been achieved, which is 0.3-0.8 % of total fuel consumption of Dutch road transport. The intermediate target of 2005 to reduce 0.4 million tonnes of CO2 emissions has probably not been met. Up to now, the program has been less successful in training existing drivers. However, both the already realized savings and the remaining potential for further savings mainly come from the group of existing drivers. 1. Active Implementation of the Directive on End-Use Energy Efficiency and Energy Services. •