Bison Transport Tatonka Fuel Management Skills Development Program

Bison Transport’s 800 drivers are participating in a comprehensive training program called Tatonka. Named for an Aboriginal word for bison, Tatonka features instructor-led discussions, computer-based modules and a full-motion vehicle simulator. Drivers learn about progressive-shifting techniques, the value of reduced idling, and managing speed and space effectively. The lessons aim to reduce fuel consumption across the fleet and initial results look promising. An 82-driver test group reduced fuel consumption by 3%. At that rate, Bison would save $750,000 a year and reduce annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 3.2 million kilograms. The company’s program earned it Canada’s Energy-Efficiency Champions Transportation award.