The objective of this project is to investigate the effects of technical and behavioural measures to influence vehicle speeds in terms of their potential impact on road safety, fuel consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The project is funded by Transport Canada.

If you’d like to put your driving habit to the test and earn rewards for doing so, visit www.centreforsustainabletransportation.org or email safemiles@uwinnipeg.ca. For more information on the SafeMiles project, visit www.safemiles.net.

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The CST at The University of Winnipeg is a membership-based, non-profit organization that facilitates best practices for the movement of people and goods over the long-term. The Centre bridges academic, business, and public interests to identify and help craft winning transportation solutions that benefit society and the environment and enhance mobility.

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SafeMiles Release ||News Release||

Earn Rewards for Safe Driving: Manitoba drivers needed for new study on driving rewards
Winnipeg, June 8, 2009 – The Centre for Sustainable Transportation (CST) is looking for Manitoba drivers who want to be rewarded simply for driving safely.

“This project focuses on positively changing the behaviour of road users by issuing rewards rather than punishments, the usual enforcement-based practice,” said the CST’s research director, Terry Zdan. “It offers participants an incentive to make Manitoba’s roads safer.”

The program, called SafeMiles, automatically tallies points earned by driving within the posted speed limits and a safe distance from the vehicle in front using new, onboard technology. A radar and GPS feedback system will provide drivers with real-time information on their speed and following distance.

Drivers can log into a secure, online site and can redeem their “good driving” points for various rewards including gift cards and weekend getaways. Here they will also be able to monitor their driving behaviour, including fuel consumption.

“The Centre is excited to bring another innovative pilot project to Manitoba,” said Arne Elias, CST’s executive director. “We are delighted to work together with Transport Canada to explore new technologies – some manufactured in Manitoba – to make roads safer and transportation more sustainable.”