CHARLOTTETOWN, P.E.I. ­– Performance Innovation Transport (PIT), a division of FPinnovations, one of the largest non-profit, private scientific research centres in the world, tests new technologies and best practices to help fleet managers reduce their costs and their environmental impact.

At the Atlantic Province Trucking Association conference, Yves Provencher, PIT director, presented to attendees during an afternoon session.

PIT endeavors to eliminate the guesswork and deconstruct the value of new technologies for its members.

“Our team consists of engineers, technicians, eco-driving trainers and fleet management specialists,” said Provencher. “You have a fleet to operate – we test the technology for you.”

Formed in 2008, PIT initially tested 19 technologies over the course of five days and presented their findings at a launch with 50 fleets.

The member-driven organization shapes the research PIT completes.

“Give us your issues and we will prioritize and solve them,” said Provencher.

An integral service provided by PIT is the Energotest.

“We conduct controlled test-track studies of solutions for achieving higher fuel efficiency and lower greenhouse gas emissions,” Provencher said. “PIT organizes Energotest by bringing together fleets and technology suppliers and tests are done with your staff, your trucks and your mechanics.”

According to Provencher, when tests are conducted with fleet staff, it helps establish credibility.

“We want to make sure the technology works on your trucks and we want to know that your staff understand it,” said Provencher.

PIT has been responsible for 13 campaigns where more than 200 technologies and best practices have been tested.