Fuel Saving Tips for Trucks

At a time when fuel prices are skyrocketing and there is a perennial shortage of gasoline across the globe, it becomes imperative that everyone do their bit in reducing the use of fuel. Making the most of the gas you put in your vehicle is one way of ensuring that you achieve the best possible fuel economy. Being economical about fuel will help save money, reduce oil dependence costs, reduce climate changes, and increase energy sustainability. Various government and non-government agencies have come up with valuable fuel economy tips for drivers. These fuel saving tips will show you how to improve mpg while minimizing damage to the environment.

At the Gas Station

It is always best to fill up your vehicle with gas early in the morning. While pumping gas, be sure to do so at a low setting to minimize the vapors. At high speeds there will be more vapors and you will be filling your tank with lesser gas as a result. Never wait till the tank is fully empty before you stop for gas. The fuller the gas tank is, the better will be the fuel mileage. Also remember not to fill up your gas tank soon after the ground tanks at the station have been replenished. The process causes dirt at the bottom of the tanks to rise to the surface and this can cut down fuel efficiency significantly.

Know Your Vehicle

Ensure that the gas you use has the right octane level recommended for your vehicle to help improve fuel economy. Most cars use regular octane gas and higher octane gas is not required unless the engine is knocking. Tuning the engine regularly and changing the oil frequently can help you get better mileage. The tires must also be checked to ensure that they are adequately inflated and appropriately aligned. This has been found to help increase gas mileage by about 3 percent. One fact that is not very commonly known is that keeping the trunk light also contributes to fuel economy. Similarly, a loaded roof can cut down mileage by about 5 percent.

Drive Responsibly

Some fuel economy tips are related to how and where you drive your vehicle. Driving within the posted speed limits, avoiding unnecessary idling, using cruise control wherever possible and preventing sudden stops and starts can all help you improve fuel economy. It is also fuel-efficient to switch off the air conditioner once in a while and to let in the breeze especially when travelling outside the city limits. Try and avoid rush hour traffic by either leaving early or working remotely a couple of times a week. A lot of gas is wasted when people wait in traffic.

Minimize Vehicle Use

By combining together two or more errands you can not just get your work done faster, you will also cut down on the fuel used. Carpooling, walking or biking when the distance to be traveled is short are some other simple fuel saving tips that can be implemented as often as possible. Avoiding rush hour traffic and using public transport, are some other fuel economy tips to keep in mind. Switching off the vehicle’s engine while travelling downhill is also one of the fuel saving tips you can choose to remember, although many states have laws against coasting so check with your local DMV before trying this tip.

Fuel Efficiency for Truck Drivers

Fuel makes up about 25 percent of the operating cost of a fleet and thus, saving even 2 or 3 percent in fuel costs of one truck can make a significant difference. As with other types of vehicles, the condition of the truck, the type of traffic encountered, and the weather will all be crucial in determining the amount of fuel being consumed. The truck or semi must be frequently checked and regular maintenance carried out to help improve fuel economy. Controlling engine speed is also one of the fuel economy tips suggested to commercial drivers.