BP Launches Commute Better Campaign

BP launches a “Commute Better” program to aid local Columbus, Ohio drivers in improving their driving routines.

The daily commute of Columbus, Ohio drivers is not generally as stressful as that of other U.S. cities, according to research from Kiplinger, but a recent survey commissioned by BP Products North America Inc. suggests there is room for improvement.

From impacted moods to concerns over wear and tear, Columbus drivers are familiar with the burdens of commuting, yet three out of four drivers don’t deviate from their usual routine in order to improve it.  In an effort to introduce Columbus drivers to various local commuting solutions, BP has launched it’s first-ever “Commute Better” program, focusing on the little things that can improve the quality of commuters’ daily travel this summer.

Through its Commute Better campaign, BP hopes to ease the daily grind by providing tips and incentives to drivers – from avoiding congestion on the road, to ensuring vehicles drive more efficiently, to helping drivers maximize their time while en route.  The campaign will feature.

• A panel of local experts, including Columbus’ go-to traffic authority Craig Sinclair, on-the-go moms, and auto expert Dan “Boots” Longenette, who will share firsthand advice on all aspects of the commute.

• Two dedicated on-the-ground Commute Crew teams that will interact with drivers ampm, offering perks such as coffee coupons (while supplies last, for use at participating sites), free umbrellas during rainstorms, sunglasses on bright days and a chance to win free BP gasoline for a year.

• Special BP site offers, such as a forthcoming market-wide loyalty program; details will be accessible via mybpstation.com/Columbus starting in August.

“We are thrilled to launch the Commute Better initiative in Columbus and focus on the little things that can help improve and maximize drivers’ time on the road,” said Kevin Phelan, vice president of sales and marketing. “Whether it’s a hot cup of coffee at your local BP station, the ability to get a few more miles out of each tank of gas, or the timing of an important morning traffic report, BP hopes to make Columbus drivers’ commutes more enjoyable this summer.”

Here are some of the pressing commuting issues that BP’s survey revealed:

Columbus Drivers Are Creatures of Habit 

Columbus commuters are creatures of habit when it comes to navigating the road, with 86% agreeing that they have a very specific commute route that they adhere to on a daily basis. Yet being well-versed in alternate routes may be the difference in getting out of the occasional traffic-jam.

“By following the same routine and not knowing your alternates, drivers are susceptible to back-ups on their preferred highways due to unexpected construction or accidents,” said Craig Sinclair, traffic reporter with Clear Channel Radio Network.  According to the survey, local road work was cited as the top inconvenience during the month of June.

A bad commute can leave a lasting impression, especially when it comes to long distance commuters. The burden of time spent on the road was more prevalent amongst drivers who traveled more than 20 miles each way, with 65% admitting to showing up late for work over the last year.  Overall, three out of five Columbus commuters agree that a bad commute can impact their mood for the rest of the day.

Commuters Concerned About Wear and Tear

About 20% of Columbus commuters said they spend three to five hours of their work week on the road and 47% rack up more than 100 miles, according to the survey. For all this time and mileage spent on the road, 71% of commuters are concerned about the ongoing impact this has on their vehicles.

“One way to make your commute more efficient, while ensuring your car is well maintained, is to use a quality fuel such as BP gasoline with Invigorate that helps clean and protect your engine, adding a few more miles per tank to your daily trek,” said  Longenette.