SmartDrive Systems, a leader in driving performance solutions that reduce collisions and improve fuel efficiency, has won first place at the APTA 2013 AdWheel Awards in the "Advertisement - Advocacy/Awareness" category for its Eco-Driving Training video for public transit.

Based on breakthrough research and analysis of actual transit fleet driving maneuvers recorded by the SmartDrive Safety program, the video provides operators with specific tips and techniques for reducing fuel use and lowering emissions that can result in savings of up to $3,400 per vehicle annually.

To see SmartDrive's solutions in action, visit Booth 604 at the APTA Annual Meeting, Sept. 29 to Oct. 2 at the Hilton Chicago.

SmartDrive is a leader in providing comprehensive, video-based operator performance and safety programs to help transit agencies achieve operational safety and efficiency, protect operators and the public, and lower costs overall.

The company has installed its solutions in over 10,000 vehicles in the last year spanning transit agencies, paratransit, shuttle operators and more. More than 26 agencies across the U.S. have deployed the SmartDrive solution; customers include LA Metro, DART, Nassau County and Veolia Transportation.

"We thank APTA for this award, which raises awareness of fuel economy and safety issues in public transit while teaching industry professionals how they can be addressed in an easy-to-implement solution," said SmartDrive CEO Steve Mitgang. "We see this award as further validation of our innovative approach, leveraging video and vehicle data to identify and prioritize the riskiest driving skills that need to be addressed, helping agencies not only improve the safety of their fleets but also lower operational costs."

Using both live footage and animation, SmartDrive's Eco-Driving Training video introduces SmartDrive Safety's simple, smooth driving techniques that promote safety and fuel efficiency within public transit. Driving "the green way" includes taking a soft approach when braking or accelerating, staying within the speed limit, easing in and out of curves, anticipating traffic changes and avoiding excessive idling. SmartDrive has found that using these techniques has helped top operators to significantly improve driving skills, increase safety and improve MPG nearly 19%.

APTA's AdWheel Awards acknowledge the creative excellence of member public transportation systems and business members in advertising, communications and marketing. The "Advertisement - Advocacy/Awareness" category honors SmartDrive for building public knowledge and awareness around the benefits of eco-driving for the public transit industry.

To watch the award-winning Eco-Driving Training video, please visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqWiEsjdLwY&feature=youtu.be.