Tag Semi-truck

Improving fuel efficiency in semi-trucks has become more and more important today. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Greenhouse gas emissions from the transportation industry accounts for about 28% of the U.S’ total greenhouse emissions. Therefore, increased fuel consumption is not safe for the economy. 

High fuel consumption also means spending more on fuel. For instance, on average, semi-trucks in the U.S. consume 36.5 billion gallons of diesel annually. This amount can be significantly reduced by following some selected tips that we have outlined in this article. By following this guide, you can begin to see more changes in how much your semi-truck consumes fuel.

PRO TIPS TO IMPROVE FUEL EFFICIENCY IN YOUR SEMI-TRUCK

AVOID IDLING YOUR TRUCK

There are many reasons why idling your truck might sound like a better option —- to grab a quick meal, maintain temperature during winter, or just to avoid restarting after a quick errand. Idling your vehicle is one of the easiest ways to burn off fuel. 

According to research, your semi-truck burns 0.8 gallons of fuel for every hour it sits idle. When you calculate how much fuel it burns over a period of time, you would realize how much fuel and money you waste while your truck sits idle. So don’t keep your truck idle for too long to improve fuel economy.

KEEP UP WITH TRUCK MAINTENANCE

Lack of regular truck maintenance can lead to increased fuel consumption. Ensure that certain parts of your truck are subject to frequent check-ups by you or a professional. For example, unclogged air filters and improperly inflated tires can greatly impact fuel consumption. Similarly, changing oils regularly can help your truck run with lesser energy. 

Semi-truck maintenance also covers managing speed, and reducing truckload. When you make efforts to handle your semi-truck with great care and keep up with regular maintenance, you’ll be shocked at how much fuel you’ll save.

DON’T OVERFILL YOUR TANK

Overfilling your fuel tank with more than what’s necessary has a couple of disadvantages. An overfilled tank can lead to tank expansion when the fuel is heated. Also, overflow leads to fuel wastage, which defeats the purpose of maximizing fuel efficiency. Pro tip? Don’t fill your tank with more than what it can take.

AVOID EXCESSIVE BRAKING

Low fuel efficiency can be linked to excessive and sudden brakes. Here’s why: every time you use the brake, your truck consumes more fuel to get back on. So every time you hit the brakes, you expend more fuel. While making some stops at intervals is necessary, consider exploring other techniques that would require less use of brakes.

MANAGE SPEED

Trucks have a speed limit of 65 mph. While it can be tempting to go higher than that on a free road, we recommend you don’t. Overspeeding and inconsistent speed can result in higher fuel consumption. On the other hand, if you drive steadily and regulate your speed, you can cut down on fuel usage. So regulate speed and drive within the speed limit, your semi-truck will thank you.

OPTIMIZE TRUCKS AERODYNAMICS 

You can cut down on fuel usage by simply improving your truck’s aerodynamics. This includes some modifications to reduce aerodynamic drag. Modifications can consist of removing accessories such as top bars, air horns, bull bars, and additional light. Other modifications done by an expert can consist of adding wheel covers, fuel tank fairings, side skirts,  trailer tails, and cab extenders.

INFLATE YOUR TIRES PROPERLY

Tires play a huge part in managing fuel economy. When your truck is incorrectly inflated,  your engine will require more energy to keep your tire in motion, thus resulting in additional fuel expenditure. To put in context 1 psi drop in tire pressure can reduce gas mileage by 0.2%. A well inflated tire on the other hand can help you save up fuel. 

USE CRUISE CONTROL

Cruise control helps you drive at a consistent speed that can make a significant difference on fuel saving. When navigating uneven roads and accelerations, employing the cruise control can provide up to 6% reduction in fuel consumption. Cruise control does not only help you regulate your speed, it can provide fuel efficiency. 

USE GPS TO FIND ALTERNATIVE ROUTES

Some routes tend to impact fuel consumption, and you should avoid them. Longer routes, roads with high traffic, poor conditions, or uneven terrains can make your truck burn more fuel. By exploring shorter routes and roads with better conditions, your truck can decrease fuel consumption. 

DRIVE WELL

Being intentional about driving smoothly can make a lot of changes to how your semi-truck consumes fuel. Practise gradual acceleration and deceleration, and maintain a steady speed to allow the engine to operate more efficiently. In a nutshell, how you drive can determine whether you burn or save more fuel. 

FINAL THOUGHTS

Improving fuel efficiency in semi-trucks is not only beneficial for reducing operational costs but also critical for minimizing environmental impact. By adopting the tips outlined in this guide, such as avoiding idling, maintaining your truck, managing speed, and driving intentionally, you can cut down on fuel consumption and expenses. Also small, but effective adjustments, like inflating tires properly or optimizing aerodynamics, can lead to substantial savings over time.

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It is every trucker’s dream to drive a high-powered and efficient truck that operates without the constant worry of breakdowns or costly repairs. Indeed, nothing beats owning a truck that provides peace of mind while allowing you to run your day-to-day operations without stress. This is made possible by investing in a truck that is designed to deliver these essential benefits.

While some brands are more popular than others, others have built a reputation of being every trucker’s first choice. In this article, we explore some of the best semi-truck brands to buy from and highlight what sets them apart.

WHAT ARE THE BEST SEMI-TRUCK BRANDS TO GET IN 2024?

FREIGHTLINER

When it comes to medium and heavy-duty trucks, Freightliner has etched its name as a household name. With their trucks made to last, it is no wonder that they are a top choice for drivers looking for dependability and longevity. 

A popular Freightliner truck is the Cascadia known for its aerodynamic design, fuel efficiency, and its engine is either powered by Detroit or Cummins heavy-duty engine. Freightliners also have advanced and automated safety features, making them ideal for overall efficiency in long-haul and urban transportation.

VOLVO

People often discuss Volvo in terms of its quality and safety, two words that have become synonymous with the brand. As a manufacturer of different vehicles, Volvo’s commitment to safety also rubs off on their trucks as they are equipped with advanced safety features. So if safety is a top priority for you, then you should go for Volvo. But that is not all about Volvo trucks. 

Other benefits of Volvo trucks include efficient fuel management, durability, advanced technology, and great resale value. Volvo also has one of the most successful trucks as the FH has sold over 1.4 million units to date.

The Volvo VN and VNR are also the most talked-about for their fuel efficiency. The VNR is particularly great for regional-haul and urban delivery. 

MACK

Mack trucks are popular because of their functionality. As one of the largest manufacturers of trucks in North America, Mack Trucks has a reputation for being known as tough work trucks.

Mack was founded by Jack and Gus Mack in 1900 and was initially known as the Mack Brothers Company, but later switched to vehicle manufacturing. In April 2000, Volvo acquired the parent company of Mack Trucks, Renault Vehicules Industriels, making Mack Trucks a subsidiary of Volvo. 

Most Mack Trucks run on the Cummins L9 engine which means higher performance and lower maintenance. Some popular Mack trucks include Mack Anthem and Mack Titan. You can identify the Mack Anthem by its bold design, but you can count on its great aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. The Mack Titan, on the other hand,  is an ideal choice if you are operating heavy-duty tasks.

KENWORTH

If you are looking to get the best value for your money, then a Kenworth semi-truck may be what you are looking for. Nicknamed the K-Whoppers, Kenworth trucks are reliable and durable and can be trusted for several uses. 

The T680 and T880 models are bestsellers Kenworth trucks that have been lauded for efficiency, functionality, and durability. 

On the one hand, the lifespan of the T680 is set at 1.5 million, which means it can last for decades. The T880, on the other hand, is known as a versatile workhouse and is popular for its ruggedness and engine makeup.

PETERBILT

Peterbilt started in 1939 and specializes in the production of medium and heavy-duty trucks and commercial vehicles. A standout feature of Peterbilt semi-trucks is their durability and low maintenance. 

The Peterbilt 379 semi-truck, for example, is built to last, often running up to 750,000 miles without needing a rebuild, with many even surpassing the 1,000,000-mile mark.

The Peterbilt 389 is another model truckers love. It comes with a 600-hp Cummins engine, advanced safety technology, and comfort features that ensure a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, even on long hauls.

INTERNATIONAL

If you’re looking for heavy-duty and medium-duty severe-service vocational trucks, you should consider going for International. Their semi-trucks are built with high technology that ensures efficiency and durability.

Popular among International truck models are the LT and RH series. They both feature the S13 Integrated Powertrain, which enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. The LT Series is designed for long-haul driving, combining comfort and efficiency.

On the other hand, the RH Series is built for local and regional haulage. It has a maneuverable design that makes it ideal for navigating tighter spaces. 

WESTERN STAR

Western Star builds durable and versatile trucks which makes it a go-to choice for truckers serving diverse industries. Powered by Detroit and Cummins truck engines, Western Star semi-trucks are designed to handle the toughest conditions. They also have sturdy steel frames and rust-resistant coatings that ensure that they perform for a long time while requiring minimal maintenance. 

Popular Western Star trucks include the 47X, 49X, and the 57X. The 47X is known for its durability, the 49X is one of the most advanced heavy-duty trucks while the 57X has driver-focused designs and advanced safety features. 

CONCLUSION

Buying a semi-truck is a big move, and you must prioritize getting the one that will serve you in the long run. Common qualities you should look out for include durability, fuel efficiency, safety, and low-cost maintenance among others. The brands listed above are trusted and can give you great value for your cash. 

ABOUT INSPIRED FUNDING

Inspired Funding has helped hundreds of truck companies secure the trucks they need to succeed. Whether you’re expanding your fleet, starting a new business, or navigating bad credit, we’re here to make truck financing simple and stress-free. 

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