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Improve Your Truckās Fuel Economy
Due to record high diesel prices, identifying ways to increase truck and fleet fuel economy and minimize fuel consumption is a priority. The following three sections on driver skills, idling and speeding and proper truck maintenance and equipment are major factors when it comes to conserving fuel.
Truck Driver Skills
Kenworth has a long-standing history of using technological advancements to improve fuel economy; however, spec’ing your truck with aerodynamics and fuel economy features will only have a major impact if you refine your fuel management driving skills and techniques.
According to the Technology and Maintenance Council (TMC), an experienced driver can be 35 percent more fuel efficient than an untrained driver. Increasing fuel efficiency is possible if a skilled driver:
- Reduces speeds to reasonable levels
- Uses restraint when accelerating from a stop
- Uses cruise control when possible
- Monitors road and weather conditions
- Minimizes idling time
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests driver-training programs that work to improve fleet fuel economy by 5 percent could save over $1,200 in fuel costs per vehicle each year.
Idling & Speeding
The EPA estimates that a truck consumes up to 1.2 gallons of diesel fuel for each hour idling or an approximate 2,200 gallons of fuel per truck each year.
Understanding that driver comfort is essential, the no-idle Bergstrom NITE® system is an efficient way to keep your cab comfortable, no matter the temperature outside. Available for all leading makes, the NITE system eliminates the need for idling to keep the cab cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Consider the newly introduced, CARB-approved NITE Phoenix that features automatic temperature control for optimum comfort and can run for 8 to 10 hours.
The American Trucking Associations (ATA) also recommends reducing speeds, as traveling 75 mph can consume 27 percent more fuel than driving 65 mph. Reducing speeds will not only increase truck and fleet fuel economy, but also help reduce maintenance costs.
Proper Truck Maintenance and Equipment
As always, maintaining proper preventive maintenance practices and knowing when replacement is necessary will keep your truck on the road longer and improve fuel economy. Consult with your Kenworth service technician about the following truck components that may prevent your vehicle from sustaining desired fuel economy levels:
- Air and fuel filters
- Misaligned axles
- Cracked, bent or damaged body components
- Synthetic or semi-synthetic oils
For more information on fuel management and preventative maintenance, visit your preferred Kenworth dealer.
Article Listing
Category
Maintenance
- Make an impression with TRPĀ® Chrome-Plated and Stainless-Steel aftermarket truck parts
- TRPĀ® Air Springs Keep You Comfortable on Any Terrain
- The Perfect Fit for Your Exhaust System
- Reduce Maintenance Costs with Bendix SmarTireā¢
- 5 AC Tips to Stay Cool this Summer
- Road Readiness
- ROUTINE MAINTENANCE WILL KEEP YOUR TRUCK PERFORMING AT PEAK EFFICIENCY
- We Are Here For You Now and in the Future.
- International Roadcheck
- Maintaining the Integrity of Your Exhaust Aftertreatment System is Crucial
Parts
- Drive Safe with MeritorĀ® Medium-Duty Brakes
- Meet the Demands of Your Business With Bezares PTOs
- Choosing the Right Air Dryer Cartridge to Protect Your Brakes
- Get the Most Out of Your Fan Clutch With Hortonās DM AdvantageĀ®
- Reinforce Your Truck with Comfort and Control by Investing in PACCAR OE Shocks
- TRP: 20 Years of Quality and Value
- The Right Drum for the Right Application
- For Flexibility and Durability, Think TRP Exhaust Bellows
- TRP All-Makes All-March Event
- TRP Introduces Fan Clutch Repair Kits
- TRP Introduces All-Makes Super Heavy Duty AC Compressors
- TRP Announces New Warranty And Product Offerings For Performance-tested Air Springs
- TRPĀ® Introduces New Lubricant Program
- TRP A/C Compressors Withstands the Most Demanding Applications
- TRUST TRPĀ® REMANUFACTURED BRAKES
- TRPĀ® Presents Tips to Maintain Your Battery Year-Round
- PACCAR Genuine Tips to Keep Your Battery in Top Condition
- Know Your Torque Rods: Inspection and Replacement
- TRPĀ® U-Bolt Kits
- TRPĀ® Chemicals
- TRPĀ® Oil Coalescing Cartridges
- TRPĀ® Extended Life Coolant
- TRPĀ® Windshield Glass
- TIPS FOR LIFE ON THE ROAD
- WINTERIZATION SERVICE CHECKLIST
- Launching New Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Safety
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- Spring Bus Maintenance: 5 Systems You Should Check Right Now
- CVSA Roadcheck 2016
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- Spring Safety Tips 2017