Mazda is urging all company car drivers who choose its range-topping Mazda RX-8 to enrol on its unique free performance driver training course. Amid increasing legislation targeting rogue drivers coupled with ever-toughening court sentences and the police and Health and Safety Executive cracking down on companies whose at-work drivers are involved in road accidents, Mazda says the programme is a must for all Mazda RX-8 company car drivers.

Mazda fleet and remarketing director Adam Pumfrey said: "The multi-award winning Mazda RX-8 is a performance car. But, as with all cars that have high power it is vital that drivers know how to handle it to get the best out of the vehicle. The Mazda RX-8 Driving Experience will teach company car drivers to get the most fun and enjoyment out of their car while driving safely and legally." The Mazda RX-8 Driving Experience was launched at the end of 2003 in conjunction with rally and vehicle preparation specialists Prodrive.

The course has proved hugely popular with over 6,500 private Mazda RX-8 drivers who have so far attended. Currently more than 400 new Mazda RX-8 owners are booked to attend a course in the near future and around 150 bookings a week are being taken.

However, said Mr Pumfrey: "We would urge all fleet operators to encourage employees who choose the Mazda RX-8 as their company car to book a place on the Mazda RX-8 Driving Experience. In addition, as many RX-8s are leased to businesses we would like contract hire and leasing companies to remind end-users about the course and how to book."