Panelists Discuss Fuel-Effiency Opportunities
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ATLANTA — Fuel efficiency should involve the enthusiasm of the truck driver in addition to aerodynamic features on the vehicle itself, according to John Vesey, over-the-road truck driver with Hirschbach Motor Lines.
Hirschbach, which is based in Dubuque, Iowa, specializes in largely refrigerated hauls. Vesey, who also has experience working on the operations side of trucking, spoke at a session at American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council annual meeting Feb. 25. The session was hosted by TMC’s study group on sustainability and environmental technologies.
Engaging drivers is important for creating a culture of compliance with fuel economy standards, according to Vesey. He suggested incentives as one way to generate enthusiasm.
“Your driver can make or break your truck,” Vesey said. “You want buy-in from your driver.”
Fleets can improve fuel efficiency through a number of technical measures, such as narrowing the gap between a tractor and trailer. Jacob White, director of product marketing with Peterbilt Motors Co., a unit of Paccar Inc., recommended a trailer gap of 43 inches. However, he said many trucks have gaps that are longer.
Tommy Cottingham, director of maintenance equipment procurement for J.B Hunt, identified custom trailer skirts as a way to improve aerodynamics. He said his units have seen a 14% fuel-economy increase since 2013. Looking to the future, he said his team is evaluating tire inflation, drive wheel fairings and rear trailer aerodynamics.
“Aerodynamics is very, very, very important,” Cottingham said.
Vesey also pointed out that, in addition to reducing fuel costs and lowering emissions, trucks designed to maximize fuel economy can boost public perception of the industry. He encouraged fleets to thoroughly conduct research and establish rapport with vendors that create products designed to improve fuel efficiency.
“Vendor relations is really important,” Vesey said. “Break bread and not the bank.”
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