Smoothness - Introduction

The smooth use of all controls is a fundamental attribute of the HPC driver. Any change in the driving process, such as in speed or direction, should be executed with smoothness and minimal physical inputs. A vehicle driven smoothly is inherently more stable and the resultant ride more comfortable for driver and passenger alike and is the hallmark of an HPC drive.

Competencies

• Ability to handle all vehicle controls smoothly and sympathetically regardless of speed or driving environment
• Ability to display an unhurried, measured and planned use of all inputs – smoothness always linked with the driving plan, giving sufficient time for all actions to be carried out without rushing

Demonstration

• The HPC driver will aim to minimise the incidence and intensity of a given input. The initial and final phase of any given input should be gradual and progressive, allowing the vehicle to prepare for whatever change of state is being asked, be it braking, acceleration or steering.
• Irrespective of external speed a driver’s actions will appear to be measured and unhurried, and the driver will consider the comfort of any passengers. Safety, however, is always the first priority, and the HPC driver will always be ready to sacrifice smoothness for safety when necessary.
• All use of the controls will be blended seamlessly together and in plenty of time before reaching the hazard.

Accelerator - Introduction

The use of the accelerator and associated acceleration sense is one of the defining characters of the HPC driver. Roadcraft defines acceleration sense as "the ability to vary vehicle speed in response to changing road and traffic conditions by accurate use of the accelerator".

Competencies

• Ability to utilise the power of the vehicle smoothly, accurately and progressively
• Ability to plan the phases of acceleration to match the prevailing vision
• Ability to maintain a constant speed through bends
• Ability to use acceleration in combination with other controls to maintain optimum stability

Demonstration

• From the start of a journey the HPC driver will blend the application of accelerator with clutch to ensure a seamless and smooth pickup, with no firm application of accelerator until the clutch is fully engaged.
• The use of the accelerator will be tapered and progressive; both the initial and final stages will be gradual with firmer application progressively applied as appropriate. In preparation for a gear change the accelerator will be smoothly blended to ensure a seamless transition.
• In corners and bends the driver will use the accelerator to optimise vehicle stability.
• The driver will appreciate the effect on the stability and handling of a car as a result of operation of the accelerator.
• The driver will demonstrate the ability to assess the cut-off point and transition from acceleration/constant speed to reduced speed for the hazard, using deceleration skills alone or a combination of deceleration and braking on the approach.

Clutch & Gears - Introduction

The efficient use of the clutch and gears on a manual car are interdependent. The HPC driver should be aware of the point of clutch engagement (the biting point) and avoid the full application of power until the clutch is fully engaged. The use of the clutch should be progressive and smooth for avoidance of premature wear. The selection of the correct gear for the speed to negotiate the hazard should be carried out as part of a systematic driving plan and well before the hazard is negotiated. To achieve a smooth change the driver should be able to match the engine revs with the speed of the car with consideration of the role of the synchromesh and flywheel characteristics of the vehicle.

Competencies

• Ability to use the gear lever sympathetically and positively to make smooth gear changes
• Understanding of the flexibility and power delivery characteristics of the gear ratios
• Ability to accurately and seamlessly match road speed with engine revs
• Understanding of the technique of Heel and Toe
• (optional) the ability to use an automatic gearbox, or derivative, with an understanding of the characteristics and optimum use of that system

Demonstration

• Drivers will familiarise themselves with the power characteristics of each gear and, in the early part of a drive in an unfamiliar car, will take time to explore the full range of the gearbox at the earliest opportunity.
• Gear selection is always appropriate to the speed and conditions.
• The driver will display consistent and precise gear changes and the gear lever will be handled positively. Changes will be executed smoothly and seamlessly.
• The driver will use the technique of double declutching, together with boost or sustained revs, to assist the gear changing process when circumstances require it, and will understand the technique of 'Heel and Toe' and when it may be appropriate. (At Entry Level standard a driver should be able to explain the theory of Heel and Toe without necessarily giving a practical demonstration).

Optional - Automatic and electronically assisted gear selection systems.

• The driver should be familiar with, and able to explain, the characteristics of the automated/ semi-automated transmissions systems of the vehicle. The driver will show an understanding of the effects of downchanges induced by 'kickdown', and the characteristics and appropriate use of any manual overrides or alternative settings such as 'Sport' mode.
• The driver should be able to use the accelerator to assist with smooth changes where necessary, and be aware of the effects of the gearbox automatically changing down during prolonged braking.

Braking - Introduction

Excellent braking control is a fundamental attribute for the HPC driver. As part of the vehicle familiarisation phase the HPC driver would be expected to explore the capabilities of the braking system; firstly a static brake check, then a moving brake check. Some braking systems employ electronic assistance that sense unusual or emergency braking and a driver would be expected to be fully aware of the braking capability of the vehicle.

Competencies

• All braking to be carried out progressively, smoothly and accurately
• Understanding of Antilock Braking Systems and the characteristics of manual cadence braking techniques
• Understanding of the effect of braking on the stability of the vehicle
• Ability to stop the vehicle in an emergency situation under full control

Demonstration

• The normal braking action is expected to be tapered, progressive and smooth, ensuring maximum stability and comfort for any passengers - initially hinting to the braking system with a brief period of soft braking, then firm braking applied in the middle phase, then tapering off during the final phase avoiding any 'jerk'.
• The driver will aim to carry out all braking in a straight line to maintain optimum stability, and will judge the braking phase to arrive at the hazard at the desired speed.
• The planned braking phase and braking effort will be adjusted in response to variations in road surface and grip, to avoid braking in unsuitable places such as standing water or loose surfaces.
• The driver will understand the effect of weight transition as the load shifts under braking.
• Ability to describe the effect of ABS and cadence braking.

Emergency Braking

• Smoothness is not a priority in an emergency situation. Drivers will be able to stop the vehicle in the shortest possible distance in an emergency, without an uncontrolled skid. The driver would be expected to depress the clutch to avoid stalling and stranding the car in a dangerous position.
• If the vehicle is fitted with ABS or electronically assisted braking, the driver should be aware of its effect.

Steering - Introduction

The choice of steering technique is a matter of personal preference; however the HPC driver should be able to appreciate the advantages and disadvantages of different methods, and be willing to show adaptability and flexibility in the application of steering techniques. Regardless of the method used, steering inputs should always be smoothly progressive and provide optimum control of the car in all circumstances.

Competencies

• Understand the use of different steering techniques and how they may be applied in appropriate circumstances
• Steering inputs are smooth and precise

Demonstration

• The driver shows adaptability in using the steering technique that is most appropriate for the driving environment, the speed and individual characteristics of the car; for example the ratio of the steering rack.
• There should be no sudden change of direction that may unsettle the stability of the car or cause undue discomfort for passengers.
• The driver's inputs will be phased, the initial phase tapered, hinting at the intended course, before progressively steering to the required direction thus allowing the vehicle to prepare for the change in direction and maintain optimum balance.