Burning fossil fuels is the biggest source of air pollution in the transportation industry, and diesel-powered trucks are no different. Environment friendly shipping requires fuel efficiency improvements.
According to statistics from the World Health Organization, more than 90 percent of the global population is exposed to toxic air, which leads to the yearly death of six million people.
Fuel efficiency matters to truck drivers. It can save expenditures, increase profitability, and help the climate. This blog will discuss fuel economy, trucks’ environmental effects, and fuel-efficient operating techniques.
Let’s get started.
How can fuel efficiency be improved in trucks?
Trucks are the backbone of American logistics and play an essential role in the country’s economy, enabling businesses to deliver goods to customers and powering commerce and trade.
The vast network of highways and roads in America, combined with the country’s large landmass, makes it primarily dependent on truck transportation to move goods across the country and to and from ports, airports, and railheads.
According to the EPA, driving at 65 mph instead of 55 mph can consume up to 20% more gas; idling an engine burns nearly one gallon. Fuel per hour and driving with an engine rpm that is too high can waste several gallons of fuel per hour.
Freight operations that need to be run better can cause trucks to sit around, travel empty, and take longer or more crowded routes. Inefficiencies boost fuel use and prices.
There are several ways for truck drivers to improve their fuel economy through their driving style:
Maintain a steady speed
Driving at a constant speed can help you save gas because you don’t have to speed up or slow down as much.
Use the cruise control.
The cruise control can help you keep a steady speed and use less gas.
Don’t let your truck idle.
Idling wastes gas and doesn’t get you anywhere. Try to keep your vehicle from sitting still for too long, especially when you’re stuck in traffic or waiting for a load.
Maintain your truck well
Keeping your tires properly inflated and your engine in good working order can help you save money on gas.
Using alternative fuels
Some trucking companies are switching to alternative fuels like natural gas or biodiesel, which can be better for the environment and more efficient than traditional fossil fuels.
Using fuel-efficient driving techniques
Many trucking companies and drivers use fuel-efficient driving techniques, such as keeping a steady speed, using cruise control, and not letting the engine idle, to reduce fuel use.
Putting money into fuel-efficient trucks
Some trucking companies are investing money in fuel-efficient trucks, like electric or hybrid trucks, which can cut emissions and save a lot on gas.
Using eco-friendly business practices
Some trucking companies use recycling and long-lasting materials to reduce their environmental impact.
How can trucks minimize their carbon footprint?
The trucking industry has come a long way in this respect. Improved road mapping and route-planning software have given truck drivers more options for taking the most direct and productive routes.
In addition to regulations, many trucking companies and fleet operators are investing in fuel-saving technology like aerodynamic improvements, more efficient engines, and hybrid powertrains. These solutions can boost truck fuel economy by 20% and lessen their environmental impact.
Every year brings new models of electric trucks from the industry’s leading manufacturers, but it will be some time before they can compete with the market share of natural gas or diesel trucks.
A final word
Fuel economy is a big deal in the trucking industry because it affects costs, the environment, and the long-term viability of the business. The trucking industry has a big negative effect on the environment, but this can be lessened by fixing the industry’s problems and implementing solutions like fuel-efficient technology and regulations.