Hyundai India’s Corporate Social Responsibility initiative has led them to set up a driving school in Chennai where 19 drivers completed their training. This driving school is set up under Hyundai Motor India Foundation (HMIF) and aims to provide driver training which will lead to livelihood opportunities for the economically backward youth in the villages around the factory. With an annual investment of Rs.12 lakh, towards the operation of the Driving School which is located within the factory premises, HMIF plans to accommodate 4 batches of trainees every year and aims to train around 100 youth to be disciplined drivers.
To ensure personalized hands-on training for aspiring drivers, Hyundai has hired two experienced instructors, to impart theory lessons as well as supervise the driving training and ensure that they learn safe driving techniques as well as understand the dynamics of the vehicles so they can optimise vehicle performance. Furthermore, Hyundai has developed intensive methods of driver training specifically designed for beginners to help them learn about road safety.
After a rigorous selection process, the drivers underwent two months training programme to make them more efficient on the roads. Apart from class room training and workshop maintenance, the drivers were also imparted practical training on working models of various automobile systems like Cooling system, Transmission system, Fuel system, etc. In order to make this program a success, besides training, the drivers were also provided lessons in safety signs, the nuances of yoga exercises and soft skills to make them good disciplined drivers.
During the course of the training, Hyundai provided them with uniforms, safety shoes and other basic amenties to make them feel a part of the Hyundai family. After completion, all the trainees were provided with certificates for their rigorous driving practice, acquired knowledge on traffic rules and regulations, driving theory, vehicle maintenance and first aid training. Practical and theoretical exams on the above topics were conducted with a pass mark of 40%. These apart, the trainees were emphasised to register 95% class room attendance and were put through the necessary medical examination for testing clear vision to become eligible for the Certificate.