Fuel rates got you down and digging into your profit? Here are six helpful ways you can save on your fuel costs over the long haul.
1. Install low-resistance tires.
This will help with the rolling resistance that creates a dragging sensation when the tires rub against the road. This can slow a trailer down, therefore making the tractor use more fuel. These tires can help save fuel consumption by up to 10%.
2. Choose aerodynamic mud flaps, “Echo Flaps.”
Testing has shown that choosing a mud flap made of strong nylon material (that prevents breakage and cracking) helps save fuel.
3. When purchasing rear wheel covers, select ones backed by the manufacturer and have testing to show that they help save on fuel costs.
4. Adding side skirts can help reduce the flow of air under the trailer.
These are not new to trailers, but they are now being made to be more efficient. They weigh less and are not as large; therefore, they are less expensive than they were previously. Over half of the new trailers being produced today have the addition of these skirts. They are also required to be on trailers to run in certain more eco-conscient states, such as California. Most of these skirts pay back within 10 to 18 months and start roughly at $1,300.00. Depending on your style of skirt, you can improve your fuel efficiency by approximately 7%.
5. Rear air foil devices, tails, or fairings as they are referred to, have come a long way and have proven to have become more aerodynamic, creating more savings than previously.
Roughly 5%-15%. The new devices are much different than the older models and do not overhang the trailer, nor do they need the driver to deploy or store them.
6. Side panels are a newer option to place between the truck and the trailer.
They are roughly 20 inches in size and help to prevent air from getting into the gap. This helps to reduce wind resistance.
These are simple, less expensive products to help you with fuel consumption. There are other more expensive/higher-tech aerodynamic devices that you can opt for to place on your trailers. The advantage of the listed items above is that they can be taken on and off to suit your current needs, which makes them great options to choose from.
If you are interested in learning more ways to conserve your fuel costs or need to rent a trailer, contact us today!
