8 Fuel Efficiency Tips You Can Use Every Day
Now, more than ever, the price of fuel is the biggest expense for truckers per mile. According to Commercial Carrier Journal, drivers can run upwards of 130,000 miles in a year, and across all those miles a 1 MPG difference can save trucking companies more than $10,000 annually.
Here are 8 tips to save fuel that can add up to big dollars:
- Pre-trip inspections and regular maintenance checks: If tire air pressure is reduced even 1 PSI, you can lose 0.3% of your fuel economy. Keeping the tires in proper alignment will also save money over time, as will monitoring the fan; inspecting the engine and cables; and looking at the brakes and fluid levels.
- Reduce idle time: Idling for just an hour can consume one gallon of fuel. Be aware that there are several states that have time limit laws for idling.
- Stick to higher gears: Less engine revving leads to more fuel efficiency. Stay within 1250 to 1350 RPM. Driving at a faster speed with a lower gear can use around 50% more fuel.
- Increase following distance: This can decrease brake and startup times. Gears one and two are fuel efficiency killers, so avoid starting from a standstill as much as possible.
- Consider your speed: Every 10 mph brings about a 1 MPG loss in fuel efficiency. Before going over 65 mph or 70 mph, calculate if the loss of fuel efficiency is worth the time you will save.
- Know the traffic conditions: Anticipate in advance when a slowdown is necessary by keeping an eye on road conditions and signs. Plan routes and avoid hazards and construction whenever possible to save fuel and time.
- Don’t overfill the tank: Filling your tank to its full capacity can waste a lot of fuel. It adds more weight, but it may also expand with heat and overflow. This also brings with it the potential of damaging some of the technical aspects of the truck.
- Consider a newer truck: One of the benefits of newer equipment is better fuel efficiency. That’s where Truck Service of Virginia comes in. If you’re in the market for refined fuel tank wagons, vacuum trucks, mechanic trucks, water trucks and lube trucks, we will be happy to assist you with all of your fleet buying needs. Or, if your truck is experiencing mechanical issues affecting its fuel economy, check out TSVA’s inspection and repair services.
If you have any questions or concerns on how to save big bucks with your trucks, TSVA can help! Contact us now!
