HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA--(Marketwire - June 11, 2012) - Shell Canada (NYSE:RDS) today kicked off the summer driving season with the launch of its Smarter Driver Challenge in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The 12-day, 6,300 kilometre Smarter Driver Challenge will attempt to set a world record for the most fuel efficient drive across Canada using only 15 simple techniques, Shell lubricants, Shell New Nitrogen Enriched Bronze gasoline and a 2012 Volkswagen Passat.
Along the route, the Shell Smarter Driver Challenge will stop in Ottawa, Toronto and Calgary for driving "Tune Up" events that will teach the public first-hand the fuel efficiency tips and techniques that Shell is using to set the world record. The team will cross the finish line in Vancouver on June 22nd where Shell will reveal the total fuel saved during the trip.
The Smarter Driver Challenge team will be coached by John and Helen Taylor, the world's most fuel efficient couple, and the holders of 90 world records in the area of fuel efficiency. At each stop media will have an opportunity to receive one-on-one tutorials from the Taylors and the Shell driving team, where they can learn important tips and techniques to increase fuel efficiency.
"Many people don't know that there are small steps drivers can take to help improve their fuel efficiency," said Ashley Nixon, Shell Strategic Relations Manager. "Shell's Smarter Driver challenge is an opportunity for us to empower Canadians with the tools and knowledge to implement simple strategies that will reduce emissions and save them money at the pump."
The Taylors will be joined by a team of drivers including Shell representatives, Alex Debogorski of Ice Road Truckers, Globe and Mail automotive blogger Lorraine Sommerfeld, as well as representatives from environmental NGOs Pollution Probe and the Pembina Institute. John and Helen Taylor, along with other members of the team, will be sharing their stories and photos during the drive at www.Shell.ca. The Smarter Driver Challenge can also be followed on Facebook and Twitter.
"Shell is excited to once again reinforce our reputation as a leader in smarter driving and fuel economy. The Smarter Driver Challenge is yet another example of Shell's commitment to responsibly developing, producing and delivering the energy that fuels the Canadian economy and lifestyle," said Nixon.
Schedule of Events (all times local):
Monday, June 11, 10 a.m.: Shell Smarter Driver Challenge Launch in Halifax at Shell retail station 977 Cole Harbour Rd.
Wednesday, June 13, 10 a.m.: "Tune Up" at the Science and Technology Museum in Ottawa
Saturday, June 16, 9 a.m.: Eco-Wheels Show at the Distillery District in Toronto
Wednesday, June 20, 1 p.m.: "Tune Up" at Shell Centre 400 4th Ave. SW in Calgary
Friday, June 22, 10 a.m.: Finish line at Shell retail station in Vancouver at 2nd & Main
Shell Smarter Driver Challenge: For media inquiries regarding the Shell Smarter Driver Challenge, please contact Matt Gully at matt.gully@edelman.com or 587-892-2605.
All other Shell Inquiries: For journalists and media inquiries only: Reporters and editors may contact Shell Media Relations at media-desk@shell.com or 1-877-850-5023. Please provide both your email and phone number as some queries will only be answered via email.
Royal Dutch Shell plc
Royal Dutch Shell plc is incorporated in England and Wales, has its headquarters in The Hague and is listed on the London, Amsterdam, and New York stock exchanges. Shell companies have operations in more than 90 countries and territories with businesses including oil and gas exploration and production; production and marketing of liquefied natural gas and gas to liquids; manufacturing, marketing and shipping of oil products and chemicals and renewable energy projects. For further information, visit www.shell.com.
Shell Canada Ltd
Shell has been operating in Canada since 1911 and employs approximately 8,000 people across the country. A leading manufacturer, distributor and marketer of refined petroleum products, Shell produces natural gas, natural gas liquids and bitumen, and is Canada's largest producer of sulphur. Shell is one of Canada's oil sands developers and operates the Athabasca Oil Sands Project on behalf of the joint venture partners.
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Contact Information:
Matt Gully
587-892-2605
matt.gully@edelman.com
Shell Canada
Shell Media Relations
1-877-850-5023
media-desk@shell.com
www.shell.com