Making a few small adjustments in day-to-day operations can yield big savings. Here are a few tips and techniques from Telargo, a provider of mobile asset management solutions.
• Train drivers – A properly trained driver can be a company’s best asset in the fight to increase vehicle fuel efficiency. Provide drivers with the most up-to-date information and training in fuel-saving techniques (keep tires inflated, drive the posted speed limit, etc.)
• Decrease idling times – Idling consumes fuel. Consider as alternatives shore power, generators and inverters that convert a truck’s 12-volt DC power into 120-volt AC.
• Slow down – According to www.fueleconomy.gov, highway speeds in excess of 60 mph decrease a vehicle’s fuel efficiency up to 23 percent for every 5 mph over the 60 mph speed limit.
• Lose weight – Carrying excess weight places an unnecessary strain on the vehicle’s engine and greatly affects its fuel efficiency. Removing as little as 100 pounds from the vehicle can significantly improve mileage.
• Get a fuel card – Many fuel providers offer savings to frequent users via gas cards or corporate accounts.
• Upgrade your fleet – Whenever possible, invest in modern fuel-efficient vehicles. Today’s fuel/electric powered hybrid vehicles increase fuel efficiency while maintaining on-road performance.
• Tune-up – A well-maintained vehicle performs better, decreases maintenance costs and improves fuel efficiency.
• Buy in bulk – Consider installing your own fuel pumps. Buy more fuel when the price is lower and store it for use during the times when fuel is more expensive. If installing your own fuel pump is not feasible, Web sites such as www.fueleconomy.gov provide information on the cheapest fuel in your area.
• Pump it up – Proper tire inflation improves fuel mileage and yields other benefits, including improved vehicle and braking performance and an increase in tire life.
• Implement advanced mobile asset management technology – This can extract valuable information about the performance of vehicles, including total miles traveled, idling time, average speed and engine efficiency. It can improve cost management and enable drivers to optimize routes, which can help eliminate unnecessary miles. Less time on the road translates into less wear-and-tear on vehicles, reduced fuel consumption, decreased expenditures and increased productivity. Careful analysis of performance data also enables customers to make informed decisions regarding vehicle selection.
