Top 10 Fuel Efficiency Tips for HGV Operators

Did you know that fuel efficiency is a critical factor for truck operators? Not only does it directly impact operating costs, but it also plays a significant role in reducing a business’s environmental footprint.

Carry on reading for our top 10 fuel efficiency tips for HGV operators to level up your business operations.

1. Regular Maintenance

It is crucial to keep your truck in tip-top condition to ensure peak operational efficiency.
Here at Dawsongroup truck and trailer, every vehicle we rent is serviced and maintained to the highest standards.

A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently, uses less fuel, and is less likely to break down, which is why it’s crucial to:

Undertake regular oil changes.
Check and replace air filters.
Inspect and maintain the fuel system.
Service the engine.

2. Effective Route Planning

Efficient route planning can significantly reduce fuel consumption, so it is recommended that you use GPS and route optimisation software with real-time traffic data.

Here’s what to consider when planning your journey:

Try to set-off during off-peak travel times wherever possible.
Avoid routes with frequent stops, high congestion, steep inclines, and rural roads.
Plan your refuelling stops.

3. Driver Training

Techniques, such as smooth acceleration, maintaining a steady speed, and anticipating traffic flow, can greatly reduce fuel consumption.

Consider investing in additional training for your drivers on fuel-efficient driving techniques such as:

Avoiding harsh braking and acceleration.
Using cruise control where appropriate.
Minimising idling time.
Stop avoidance.
Changing gears efficiently and driving in the highest possible gear for the speed.
Limiting the use of air-conditioning as the conversion of warm outside air to cool air inside consumes fuel.

A useful training option that covers many of these topics and more is our Driver Training + programme – free of charge for any vehicle rented from us.

4. Aerodynamic Enhancements

Improving the aerodynamics of a HGV reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency.

A vehicle can be streamlined, and its fuel consumption reduced, by adding features such as:

Roof-mounted deflectors.
Side skirts to cover the gap between wheels.
Rear tail fairings.

5. Load Management

Poor load management can increase fuel consumption and cause additional wear and tear on the vehicle.

Instead:

Distribute your load evenly.
Avoid overloading.
Secure the load properly to prevent shifting.
Use smaller trucks for smaller loads.

6. Utilising telematics

The benefits of telematics include monitoring driver performance and tracking fuel consumption patterns.

Telematics systems also provide real-time data on:

Vehicle performance.
Driver behaviour.
Fuel usage.

By analysing this data, you can identify areas for improvement to enhance your fuel efficiency.

7. Tyre management

Tyres play a crucial role in fuel efficiency. Therefore, you must remember to:

Use the right type of tyre for your vehicle.
Regularly check your tyres for any faults.
Maintain the correct tyre pressure.
Rotate tyres as recommended by the manufacturer.
Consider using fuel-efficient or low-rolling resistance tyres.
Check for the correct tyre and wheel alignment.

8. Speed management

Maintaining an optimal, constant speed can enhance fuel efficiency. High speeds lead to increased air resistance and raise your fuel consumption.

Familiarise your drivers on how to:

Use cruise control to maintain a steady speed, especially on motorways and flat roads.
Avoid speeding.
Follow the manufacturer’s recommended speeds.
Avoid slowing down and speeding up, as this uses more fuel than necessary.

9. Fuel quality

Ensure that the fuel you use meets the necessary standards and is free from contaminants, by remembering to:

Purchase fuel from reputable suppliers.
Regularly check fuel filters.
Use high-quality fuel and avoid lower-grade versions.

10. Reduce idling

Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, so reducing idling cuts unnecessary fuel wastage, which is done by:

Turning off the engine during long stops.
Using auxiliary power units (APUs) for heating and cooling.
Educating drivers about the cost of idling.

Conclusion

By following our top 10 fuel efficiency tips for HGVs, you can reduce your fuel consumption, lower your operating costs, improve your bottom line, reduce carbon emissions, and combat climate change.