Start-up aims to plug gap in British market

Irish start-up CleverMiles is extending its safe driving application to the British market during the UK Castrol 20/20 Challenge.

The CleverMiles device is small and can be plugged into any car manufactured after 2000 in a matter of seconds. Once in place the application monitors and analyses driving behaviour using various metrics. The aim of the application is to encourage safer driving through an award scheme — drivers receive feedback on their behaviour after each journey and the idea is that through this and potential insurance benefits, better driving habits will be developed.

Chief executive James McNamara said the number of start-up competitions taking place in Ireland was a great boost to fledgling companies.

“We’re delighted to have made it to the finals of both of these prestigious competitions. As a young start-up it’s important for us to gain awareness for our product through as many forums as possible,” he said.

“We’re lucky that in the times that we live in there are so many competitions encouraging start-ups like ourselves to achieve and develop our concept further.”

Mr McNamara said they had spent 10 months developing and testing the concept.

The Castrol 20/20 challenge finals take place on and May 28 and 29 in London. CleverMiles is one of five finalists hoping to win the opportunity to receive $10,000 towards developing their idea and the benefits of a longer-term relationship with Castrol and the muscle of the wider BP network.