Top ways to improve heavy truck fuel economy
Improving fuel economy is one of the most effective ways in the trucking industry to improve profit margins and reduce environmental footprints. The heavy truck dealers in Calgary at RJames Western Star know how important fuel economy is to our clients, which is why we have put together the following four ways to improve heavy truck fuel economy.
1. Reducing weight
Fuel consumption directly correlates to vehicle weight, as heavy trucks need more fuel to accelerate and go uphill. There are many opportunities for reducing the weight of a truck and thereby improving its fuel economy. Lightweight components can drastically reduce the overall weight of both the truck and the trailer. Aluminum and aluminum alloys can be used to reduce heavier metals in axel hubs, wheels, upright posts, roof posts, floor hoists, clutch housing, and more.
2. Reducing rolling resistance
Tires play a crucial role in heavy truck fuel economy because rolling resistance accounts for a significant portion of a truck’s energy usage. The higher the resistance, the harder the truck needs to work and the more fuel it needs to burn. The best way to reduce rolling resistance is to always keep tires properly inflated. Improperly inflated tires will flex and produce more heat, wasting fuel. Experts also recommend the use of single wide-base tires instead of two standard tires. In addition to reducing rolling resistance and drag, wide-base tires also weigh less than two tires and wheels, further helping to reduce fuel consumption.
3. Improving aerodynamics
Another significant source of drag and energy loss on heavy trucks is poor aerodynamics. In fact, reducing drag by 25% can amount to as much as a 15% increase in fuel economy. Choosing a heavy truck model with a more aerodynamically designed tractor is one way to ensure less wind resistance, but there are other steps you can take as well. This includes truck accessories such as roof fairings, side fairings, and gap seals. Using side skirts on the trailer and arranging cargo to have a low profile will also help.
4. Limiting highway speeds
At highway speeds, a 15% increase in speed can result in a fuel consumption increase of as much as 25%. Poor aerodynamics, high rolling resistance, and truck weight will compound the impact of higher speeds. As a typical heavy truck is spending most of its operating life on the highway, reducing and limiting highway speeds can amount to annual fuel cost savings of over $1,000.
Find Heavy Trucks for Sale in Calgary and Red Deer
As you can see, there is a high incentive for fleet operators to look into ways of making their fleet more fuel efficient. At RJames Western Star, we offer a variety of heavy trucks for sale in Calgary and Red Deer that feature aerodynamic designs and lightweight components.
To find out more about our selection of heavy trucks for sale, don’t hesitate to contact RJames Management Group Ltd. today.