However, the reality is that truck purchases have declined, and hundreds of thousands of new trucks will likely begin transporting global goods over the next two years. Roth noted that it’s fuel efficiency per ton of freight that has to improve, explaining: “We like a ton of miles per gallon.” “Just because pickup trucks can get 20 miles per gallon (8.5 kilometers per litre), we don’t want 60 pickup trucks to haul what one tractor trailer can.”
The trend toward using technology to improve fuel economy on large rigs reflects many fundamental changes in the freight trucking business, from new emissions standards to rising fuel prices. At the same time, trucks became heavier. “But the overall weight limit hasn’t changed,” Roth said. So trucks must be able to move more weight with smaller engines and fuel tanks.
“In 20 years, we’ve had five versions of emissions standards,” Roth said. Cleaning systems and other equipment required by these regulations tend to be overweight. Trucking companies also want their “sleepers” to offer more amenities in order to help retain their best drivers — no small feat as companies face a shortage of young drivers coming in to replace those now approaching retirement age.
“Our customers are looking for every opportunity to save fuel,” said Peter Adams, Shell Global Intelligent Transport Program Manager. While acknowledging that Shell hopes the subscription-based FuelSave system will increase loyalty among commercial truck drivers, Adams explained the move to sell fuel-saving technology: “If we help our customers manage their fuel effectively, they will remain profitable, in business, and continue to be profitable.” the purchase”. fuel.”
In the Netherlands, for example, the Emons Group piloted the Shell FuelSave Partner program on 17 trucks in its recycling division. The company’s 450 trucks, which transport chemicals, glass and other goods, consume 15 million liters (about 4 million gallons) annually. Fuel alone accounts for about a quarter of Emons’ costs. By 2012, Emons aims to reduce fuel use by 20 percent. The 17 trucks that used the Shell system for six months reduced fuel consumption by an average of 5.3 percent, with some individual drivers achieving savings of 10 percent.
