The high cost of diesel fuel has the potential to eat into freight carriers’ and owner-operators’ bottom lines. That means the relatively carefree days of idling while taking lunch may need to give way to increased fuel efficiency. It may come as something of a surprise to even fairly experienced truckers, but a 1 mpg improvement can result in a savings of $10,000 annually. If the idea of using less fuel and saving money pique your interest, these rank among the top strategies to reduce diesel costs.
1: Adjust Operating Behaviors
The conventional wisdom of driving slower remains a relatively straightforward way to save on fuel. That’s largely because engines experience greater stress as they ramp up, and higher rates of speed burn more diesel. To put some hard numbers behind the theory, every 5 mph over 65 mph reduces fuel efficiency by 7 percent. The following are other ways changing behaviors can minimize fuel usage.
- Eliminate Unnecessary Idle Time
- Include Auxiliary Power Units
- Use Cruise Control more Frequently
Turning off the air conditioning whenever practical can also add up to significant savings over the long haul.
2: Maximize Equipment Efficiency
Consistently using manufacturer-recommended and low-viscosity engine oil can result in 1-2 percent mileage efficiency. Other equipment-driven methods to save fuel expenses include the following.
- Check Tire Pressure Frequently
- Rotate and Reposition Tires When Practical
- Pump Fuel at Low Pressure to Minimize Vapor Loss
- Conduct Regular Maintenance Checkups
- Be Proactive about Replacing Aging Fuel Lines
It’s also worthwhile to consider adopting a refueling habit that avoids the tank nearing empty. Debris typically collects at the bottom of tanks, and drawing it into the engine is not good for the fuel economy or equipment.
3: Reduce Wind Resistance
Passenger vehicle drivers sometimes keep the windows rolled up to avoid increased wind resistance and gasoline usage. As silly as that may seem on the surface, wind resistance plays a major role in fuel efficiency. That’s why the following changes could prove to be wise investments.
- Install Lift Axles on Trailers
- Install Side Skirts and Trailer Wings
If your trailer stands higher than the tractor, it’s typically a good idea to consider a roof-mounted air deflector. Minimizing aerodynamic drag can substantially reduce wasteful fuel loss.
4: Make Strategic Route-Running Decisions
While equipment alterations and fuel economy strategies can further the goal of spending less money on diesel, taking a long look at how truckers negotiate routes can prove helpful. The idea that a professional freight hauler starts his or her day promptly at a specified time to maximize hours of service rules may not be a winning bet. Incurring heavy drive-time traffic or road construction sends optimum fuel economy off a cliff.
Truckers may be better served to factor in peak traffic congestion and alter their on-duty plans. It may also be prudent to get off the interstate and take a seemingly slower road that won’t result in idling like you’re stuck in a parking lot.
Sources: freightwaves.com. trucker.com
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