With the average diesel price at $5.50 per gallon, your budget is stretched thin. As a result, fleet managers must put clear-cut strategies in place to improve fleet fuel budget efficiency. No longer can you leave it to chance. Fleet managers and owner-operators alike can benefit from these suggestions.

Consider Electric Vehicles (EV) When Replacing Old Vehicles 

Although you’ll need to consider carrying capacity, size, emissions, and fuel efficiency, EVs can save money on fuel and maintenance. We really don’t know if fuel prices will ever recover to pre-Ukraine war days. Therefore, where feasible, fleet managers should consider EVs.  

Despite the initial replacement cost often being more for EVs, fleet managers must evaluate each vehicle’s intended lifespan and the fuel and maintenance savings when incorporating EVs into the fleet replacement plan.

Fleet Managers Must Scrutinize Routes 

The use of some apps can cut miles and thus fuel usage. However, there is also the human element and fleet managers should examine routes to ensure fuel efficiency is coupled with flat terrain whenever possible and consider Telematics in your fleet to give you a better idea of where to save.

Incorporate fuel efficiency into your driver training program and consider incentives for drivers who reduce fuel usage. 

Use Governors to Ensure Max Speeds

Although some drivers won’t be happy with the choice, slowing from 75 to 65 mph can save 27%, and a reduction to 55 mph can save 20% fuel over an equal distance.

 

NOTE: The CVSA Operation Safety Week is 10-16 July 2022 and will focus on speeding, so set those governors and watch your speed.

A Rock Solid Preventive Maintenance (PM) Program

There is no better method of reducing fuel costs than PM. An excellent maintenance program saves you money on fuel, but it will also reduce emissions across your fleet. Of course, the primary focus is fuel economy, but when your long-term goal to fix your fuel budget helps the environment, it’s a win-win.

Frequent tune-ups, tire pressure checks, tire rotations and balancing are proven methods to increase fuel efficiency. Let the professionals at Ultimate Fleet Repair help you cut fuel costs through regularly scheduled PM.

Call Ultimate Fleet Repair to Ensure Your PM Is Scheduled & Completed to Perfection  

Call us to set up your vehicle or fleet PM schedule (651) 454-8775. Use our contact form.