How Technology Improves Fleet Fuel Management

Some people think of fuel costs as a “necessary evil” — after all, if you’re running a business that depends on a stable fleet of trucks, there’s little that you can do to avoid that expense. However, even though the price of diesel may be beyond your control, you can improve how your trucks use fuel to reduce your overall costs.

In this post, we’ll talk about how fleet fuel management reduces fuel waste, increases efficiency, and gives you greater insights into day-to-day operations.

What Is Fleet Fuel Management?

Fleet fuel management is the systems, processes, and procedures that monitor the way a fleet consumes fuel. That may involve manual data entry, cost forecasting, and the planning and oversight of truck maintenance.

What Are the Challenges in Fleet Fuel Management?

These are some of the most common challenges that fleet fuel management professionals face:

Recordkeeping

In order to guarantee proper recordkeeping, drivers need to be able to log fuel usage properly. Not only is manual tracking difficult, but it is also a process prone to human error or even simple misunderstandings.

Fuel Fraud

Another major challenge that a lot of organizations face is fuel fraud. Fleets are becoming an increasingly popular target for fuel theft because anything obtained by someone with malicious intentions can be resold at a profit. Fuel theft can amount to as much as 10% of an organization’s overall fuel budget — hardly a “cost of doing business” at that point.

Nationwide, approximately 81% of fuel theft happens within the company. Drivers could be siphoning diesel fuel from their work trucks for personal use, or using their employer-issued fuel card to buy fuel for their own vehicles. Fleet managers need a way to identify this type of activity — or prevent it from happening in the first place. 

Overseeing Maintenance Schedules

Fleets must be maintained to increase the longevity of each truck. Keeping track of every truck’s maintenance schedule can be a major challenge, but without regular maintenance, truck fuel efficiency declines. 

Even something as seemingly simple as not putting enough air in the tires can cause trucks to use more fuel than they should. The same is true of a truck’s HVAC system during the hot summer months. The harder the HVAC system has to work due to inefficiencies, the more fuel the truck will use. Multiply that by the total number of trucks in the fleet, and you begin to get a sense of just how costly things can quickly get.

Fluctuating Fuel Costs

With the price of fuel totally outside the control of a business, and with prices fluctuating wildly throughout the year, it makes it difficult to accurately forecast fuel costs.

Solutions for Fleet Fuel Management

Thankfully, there are a variety of different fleet fuel management solutions that can help you manage costs. You may want to use a combination of these methods to help generate as much operational savings as possible.

Mobile Fueling

While your organization will pay for the service associated with mobile fueling, it still brings with it a wide range of different cost-benefits. For example, your drivers don’t have to waste fuel (or time) by diverting from their route to fuel up, and you can fuel trucks during scheduled downtime. 

With mobile fueling, you know the exact CPG for every truck, which is a big advantage over diesel costs that vary based on the location of fuel stations. 

Fuel Apps

There are many different fuel apps to choose from depending on your needs. Typically, drivers get a fuel card, a sticker, or some type of contactless payment method that links to an app. When they purchase fuel, that information automatically syncs to the app. Fleet managers can see and manage fuel costs within the app, as well as set spending limits in real time.

Fleet Fuel Management Software

A fleet fuel management system helps to automate a lot of the processes outlined above. It helps monitor fuel usage for individual trucks and the fleet as a whole. This gives organizational leaders access to the accurate, actionable insight they need to cut fuel-related costs and boost efficiency.

Dynamic Routing

Routing software optimizes routes and reacts in real time to unexpected road closures, traffic, and hazards. That means drivers have instant access to the most efficient route and spend less time idling (and wasting fuel). 

Telematics

Fleet fuel telematics solutions are also a great way to gather insights into how your vehicles are using fuel and energy. Telematics can identify fuel-wasting habits like idling, speeding, and abrupt braking. 

You can also use telematics to monitor diesel exhaust fuel (DEF) levels. Maintaining the appropriate DEF level is important for compliance with emission regulations and avoiding mechanical breakdowns.

Aerodynamic Improvements

Improving aerodynamics through attachments on the side, the underbody, and on other areas of a truck can improve fuel efficiency.

TruckWings is one such product. It’s a tractor-mounted aerodynamic device that closes the gap between the cab and the trailer to reduce drag and improve stability, generating fuel savings of between 3% and 6% on average. 

That savings can amount to thousands of dollars per truck, or millions of dollars per fleet.

See the Results

One of the largest fleets in North America used TruckWings to decrease its fuel costs and improve operational efficiency. Learn more about how this 235,000-truck fleet got results with TruckWings.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards Phase 3: A Step Toward a Cleaner Future

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently proposed new greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for heavy-duty vehicles known as phase 3. The proposed standards, which would apply to heavy-duty truck OEMs for upcoming model years 2028-2032, are the most stringent ever set by the EPA.

Phase 1 and 2 of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards for Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicles were implemented in 2014 and 2017, respectively. The standards reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from medium- and heavy-duty vehicles by 11% and 14%, respectively, below 2010 levels by 2021. 

If finalized, the new Phase 3 standards would reduce GHG emissions from heavy-duty vehicles by 29% below 2021 levels by 2032. This would help mitigate climate change’s effects and improve air quality.

The proposed standards would apply to a wide range of heavy-duty vehicles, including trucks, buses, and trailers. They would be phased in over time, with the most stringent requirements applying to model year 2032 vehicles.

The EPA estimates that the new standards would cost the heavy-duty vehicle industry an average of $1,700 per vehicle. However, the agency also estimates that it would save the industry $1.5 billion in fuel costs over the life of the vehicles.

Key Differences in Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Standards

  • Stringency: Phase 3 standards are significantly more stringent than Phase 2 standards. Phase 3 standards would reduce GHG emissions from heavy-duty vehicles by 29% below 2021 levels by 2032. Phase 2 standards reduced emissions by 17% below 2010 levels by 2021.
  • Applicability: Phase 3 standards would apply to a wider range of vehicles than Phase 2 standards. Phase 3 standards would apply to all heavy-duty vehicles, including trucks, buses, and trailers. Phase 2 standards applied to all heavy-duty vehicles except for school buses.
  • Timeline: Phase 3 standards would be phased in over a more extended period of time than Phase 2 standards. Phase 3 standards would apply to model years 2028-2032. Phase 2 standards applied to model years 2021-2027.
  • Technology: Phase 3 standards would rely on a wider range of technologies than Phase 2 standards. Phase 3 standards would allow for the use of various technologies, including advanced diesel engines, hybrid electric vehicles, and battery electric vehicles. Phase 2 standards primarily relied on the use of advanced diesel engines.
  • Cost: Phase 3 standards are estimated to be more costly than Phase 2 standards. The EPA estimates that the Phase 3 standards would cost the heavy-duty vehicle industry an average of $1,700 per vehicle. However, the agency also estimates that the standards would save the industry $1.5 billion in fuel costs over the life of the vehicles.
PhaseModel YearsGHG Emissions Reduction Target
12014 – 201814% below 2010 levels
22021 – 202717% below 2010 levels
32028 – 203229% below 2021 levels

Special Provisions for Aerodynamic Technologies

The EPA’s proposed rule for Phase 3 also includes several provisions that would encourage using aerodynamic technologies to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. These provisions include:

Drag Coefficient Requirements for Phase 3
TruckTrailer
Model Year 20280.550.62
Model Year 20320.500.60
  • Requiring manufacturers to meet minimum aerodynamic requirements for new vehicles.
  • Providing credits to manufacturers for meeting more stringent aerodynamic requirements.
  • Investing in research and development of new aerodynamic technologies.

The EPA estimates that these requirements will reduce drag by an average of 10% for trucks and trailers, leading to an average improvement in fuel efficiency of 2%. 

The EPA estimates these requirements could reduce GHG emissions by an additional 1% below the standards’ baseline. This would bring the total potential reduction in GHG emissions from phase 3 to 30% below 2021 levels by 2032.

Industry Feedback

The new standards have been met with mixed reactions from the heavy-duty vehicle industry. Some industry groups have praised the standards, saying they are necessary to address climate change. Others have criticized the standards, saying they are too costly and will harm the industry.

The American Trucking Association (ATA), the largest trucking trade group in the United States, has said that it supports the goals of the Phase 3 standards but is concerned about the cost of meeting them. The ATA has said that the standards could cost the trucking industry $15 billion to $20 billion over the next decade.

The EPA has said it is working with the trucking industry to help them meet the Phase 3 standards. It provides technical assistance to the industry and works to ensure that the standards are flexible enough to allow the industry to innovate and find new ways to reduce emissions.

Truck Fleet Management: How To Boost Your Fleet’s Efficiency

Truck fleet management is a complex process.

It requires careful consideration of driver training, maintenance costs, fuel efficiency, and federal regulations — all while trying to minimize costs for your business. 

In this post, we’ll cover some of the ways you can streamline fleet management and control your costs.  

What Are the Key Elements of Effective Truck Fleet Management?

The following list outlines the key components of successful fleet management.

Driver Recruitment and Hiring

Even if human resources personnel manage the recruitment and hiring process, fleet managers are usually involved in the driver-vetting process. They may also manage performance evaluations, driver salary increases, and progressive discipline.

Driver and Route Management

Fleet managers are responsible for overseeing and optimizing routes, scheduling drivers, and ensuring drivers maintain proper credentials.

Driver Monitoring

With large, long-haul fleets, fleet managers have to evaluate driver performance remotely. That typically means reviewing hours-of-service logs and using GPS to see where drivers are in real-time. 

Idling or rapidly accelerating can increase fuel consumption, so fleet managers may also review fuel usage to spot these driving habits.   

Overseeing Maintenance

Preventative maintenance (PM) is the process of scheduling maintenance to keep trucks in good working order. It may also involve predictive maintenance (PdM) technology that monitors truck performance and alerts fleet managers when something isn’t working properly.

Allocating Resources

Managing a truck fleet requires mindfulness of how you’re allocating resources to determine whether you need to:

  • Add new trucks
  • Retire or upgrade old ones
  • Find new software solutions to support fleet management
  • Bring on new personnel
  • Schedule additional training for drivers

Ensuring compliance

Fleet managers may be responsible for creating and enforcing internal policies that relate to driving and drivers. They also oversee driver and truck compliance with applicable state and federal regulations.     

 

Managing Fuel Costs

Fuel costs are a major expense, and reducing them is a big part of fleet management. Fleet managers may use a combination of approaches to minimize fuel costs, such as: 

  • Optimizing routes
  • Eliminating less-than-truckload deliveries
  • Adding alt-fuel vehicles to their fleet
  • Outfitting trucks with aerodynamic devices

Controlling fuel costs is an ongoing task, especially because the cost of diesel is so unpredictable. 

What Are the Challenges Fleet Managers Face Today?

Fleet managers face challenges that can increase costs and decrease efficiency if they don’t use the right solutions.

Here are some common issues fleet managers face.

Recruiting and Retaining Drivers

The transportation industry faces a shortage of 80,000 drivers, and the American Trucking Associations predict this number to reach 160,000 by 2030.

So, finding and keeping quality drivers is essential for the success of your fleet. Poorly trained or inexperienced drivers can lead to unnecessary costs, while experienced, well-trained drivers keep your fleet running safely and efficiently.

You’ll need to establish an effective recruitment strategy that includes:

  • Employee referrals
  • Online postings
  • Driver incentives

Complying With Laws and Emissions Standards

Fleet managers must stay up to date with federal, state, and local regulations to ensure compliance.

Understanding these rules is essential for avoiding costly fines and other penalties. Remember that regulations vary by state, making it more difficult for companies in interstate commerce to keep track of them.

For example, the California Air Resource Board (CARB) no longer registers diesel vehicles that weigh over 14,000 pounds or have engines from 2009 or earlier. So, you may need to upgrade or replace vehicles to meet emissions standards.

Unpredictable Fuel Costs

The cost of diesel depends on foreign market fluctuations and supply chain costs.

This makes it difficult to budget for the fleet because of unpredictable fuel prices. To help offset this unpredictability, you can use multiple approaches to maximize efficiency and reduce fuel expenditures.

You can increase fleet efficiency through aerodynamic devices such as side skirts and gap reducers, which drag on the truck. Another solution is to use advanced analytics and truck tracking technology to monitor driver behavior.

This will enable you to identify issues like idling, speeding, and excessive braking that can increase fuel costs.

What Resources Can Help With Fleet Management?

Boosting efficiency and profitability with a reliable fleet management system is essential to any business that specializes in commercial vehicles.

Plenty of tools and technologies are available to help you manage your fleet. Fleet managers who take advantage of these resources can ensure their fleets run optimally, enabling them to maintain a competitive edge.

Alternative Fuels

Biodiesel and natural gas can help reduce emissions while keeping costs low.

There are also various incentives, grants, and tax credits that can help fleets manage the costs of switching to alternative fuels.

Gas Discount Cards

Gas discount cards help you save money on fuel without your drivers having to search for the best prices. Many of these cards also link to an app that tracks fuel expenses, so you get real-time visibility into your fuel costs.  

 

Hiring Bonuses and Benefits

Recruiting and retaining quality drivers is essential to the success of your fleet.

Consider offering perks like:

  • Sign-on bonuses
  • Health insurance
  • A 401(k) plan
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement 

Telematics Systems

Some in-cab technology falls short of what fleet managers need. For example, the earliest lane departure warning systems issued driver alerts but didn’t record lane departures, which means fleet managers might not know if drivers were prone to drifting off while behind the wheel. Telematics combines software and hardware to sense events or conditions as they occur and relay that information to a digital platform that fleet managers can access. 

One application of this tech is TruckWings, an aerodynamic device that minimizes drag, improves stability, and reduces fuel costs by up to 6%. Software deploys the “wings” based on driving speed and collects data, with no input needed from drivers.   

Take Control of Your Fleet Management With TruckLabs

Contact us today to learn how TruckWings can lower your fuel costs.

Top Ten Ways to Improve Semi-Truck Fuel Efficiency

New semi-truck emissions regulations, along with higher fuel costs, have trucking fleet operators looking harder for additional ways to gain fuel efficiency. 

Record costs for fleets have come in the form of driver pay increases and a jump in repair and maintenance costs, but nothing has been more costly than the rising price of diesel. The American Transportation Research Institute reports that fleet operators saw a more than 35 percent increase in fuel prices last year, bringing per-mile trucking costs to their highest levels on record.

Now the Biden administration has proposed new emissions regulations that put the transportation industry at the center of attention, with goals to speed up the path to zero-emission semi-trucks and stringent new standards to reduce pollution.

But, there are many ways to increase fuel efficiency and reduce fuel costs, including quick and easy options that bring immediate results.

Semi-Truck MPGs at a Glance

Most semi-trucks have one or two fuel tanks that hold up to around 300 gallons of gas combined.

On average, semi-trucks get anywhere from 5.6 miles per gallon (mpg) to about 6.5 mpg. That fuel efficiency can range more widely when trucks are climbing steep uphill grades, which can push fuel efficiency down to 3 mpg, or coasting downhill when fuel efficiency can top 23 mpg. On a long route, fuel is consumed quickly and refueling is always top of mind for drivers.

In the last year, diesel fuel prices have spiked dramatically. Filling up used to cost around $300 to $400, but it can now cost over $1,000 to fill up the same Class 8 truck. Earlier this year the price of diesel fuel jumped by more than $1.50 per gallon in roughly two months, surpassing $6 per gallon in some markets. Since last year, truck fleets’ fuel spending has increased by around 25 percent to 30 percent. According to the American Trucking Associations, semi-trucks burn about 36.5 billion gallons of diesel annually.

New Standards for GHG Emissions Loom

The EPA announced a proposal on April 12, 2023, to revise existing standards to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty vehicles for 2027, and set new, more stringent standards for model years 2028 through 2032. This proposed program, called “Phase 3 greenhouse gas,” builds upon the success of two previous rulemakings, Phase 1 greenhouse gas, and Phase 2 greenhouse gas, which have already reduced greenhouse gas emissions from heavy-duty vehicles and engines.
The Phase 3 greenhouse gas standards will apply to heavy-duty vocational vehicles such as delivery trucks, refuse haulers, public utility trucks, transit, shuttle, school buses, and tractors such as day cabs and sleeper cabs on tractor-trailer trucks. This proposal complements EPA’s recently-finalized standards to control air pollution from new heavy-duty engines and vehicles and EPA’s proposed rule addressing multi-pollutant emissions for model years 2027 and later light-duty and medium-duty vehicles.
These three actions align with the “Clean Trucks Plan.” By implementing these new standards, we can work towards a more sustainable future that prioritizes reducing the environmental impact of our transportation systems.

Best Ways to Gain Fuel Efficiency

From simple and immediate, to long-term and lucrative, there are many ways to get better gas mileage in a truck. Here are ten top ways to gain fuel efficiency.

  1. Use Cruise Control – Inconsistent speed can be a common cause of poor mileage. Using cruise control regulates speed and creates more efficiency.
  2. Avoid Idling – Idling is a waste of gas. Find easy ways to stop idling, including using truck stop showers while waiting in line.
  3. Keep Up on Maintenance – Make sure trucks receive regular maintenance checks as recommended by the manufacturer. Consider using a lower-viscosity oil.
  4. Improve Truck Aerodynamics – There are a number of products on the market that can improve truck aerodynamics and significantly reduce fuel costs, including TruckWings, which close the gap between the cab and trailer to reduce drag. Other aerodynamic devices include wheel covers, roof farings and side extenders.
  5. Plan Ahead – Pre-plan your trip to avoid unnecessary stops and use the latest GPS equipment to keep routes accurate.
  6. Lighten the Load – Reduce excess weight by removing unnecessary cargo or equipment. Every extra pound counts.
  7. Don’t Speed – Drive at the posted speed limit or slightly below. This cuts down on wind resistance which, in turn, cuts down on fuel consumption.
  8. Easy on the Brakes – Use momentum to your advantage and avoid sudden accelerations and excessive braking, which increase fuel consumption.
  9. Use Low-Rolling Tires – Low-rolling resistance tires made for trucks require less energy to move and can cut down on fuel use.
  10. Minimize AC Use – When and where possible, cut back on how much the AC is used. Air conditioning can be another drag on fuel use.

Get Started Today

Pressure from rising fuel prices and driver shortages, along with new legislation aimed at reducing emissions produced by trucks, is giving fleet owners and operators a lot to think about. But easy solutions and smart steps can make a big difference almost immediately. Using fuel efficiency measures can add up quickly and provide relief.

TruckWings can help fleets reduce drag and cut fuel costs by 3% to 6% annually, which can be thousands of dollars in savings per truck, leading to millions of dollars per fleet.

TruckWings is the only fully automated aerodynamic device that works without driver interaction. Drivers can count on it to deploy when speed goes above 52mph, and retract when speed goes below 50mph. So there’s no need to take their eyes off their driving or their hands off the wheel. Closing the gap reduces buffeting and trailer sway in cross-winds outperforming even the longest side-extenders on the market today.

Give us a call today to find out more about quick installation.

Truck Fleet Maintenance: How Upkeep Saves Money in the Long Run

Truck Maintenance

Intro

Routine truck fleet maintenance takes time, but it’s essential for preventing breakdowns. It also keeps trucks running efficiently, which means fleet owners save money in the long run. 

Given that new truck production slowed in 2022 due to parts shortages, keeping your current trucks in good working order should be a priority.

In this post, we’ll talk about the benefits of truck maintenance and offer some additional tips on how to manage your fleet costs. 

What Does Truck Fleet Maintenance Include? 

Commercial truck fleet maintenance includes preventive service, such as oil changes, air filter replacement, and brake inspection. It also includes emergency service — although, a regular maintenance schedule helps prevent the need for emergency repairs.

Benefits of Truck Fleet Maintenance

These are the main benefits of maintaining commercial trucks:

Improved Fuel Economy

Properly maintained trucks are more efficient in terms of fuel consumption. Regular oil changes and filter replacements help keep the engine running at peak efficiency. And according to one study, fleets that follow a strict maintenance schedule can see fuel consumption improvements of 5-10%.

Reduced Operating Costs

Preventive maintenance helps identify potential problems before they become costly repairs. This saves money by keeping vehicles on the road longer and reducing labor costs associated with repair work. 

Increased Safety 

By regularly checking tires, brakes, lights, and other components, you can ensure your fleet is operating safely. 

Lower Emissions

A well-maintained engine produces fewer emissions, which is beneficial for the environmental and helps improve air quality. Some states have enacted emissions-control laws that may force fleets to either reduce their emissions or pay fines for non-compliance.

Prevents Out-of-Service Orders

When a truck fails a safety inspection, an inspector can issue an out-of-service order. That means a carrier might be unable to complete a scheduled delivery, which can result in dissatisfied customers and disruptions in the supply chain. 

Tips for Effective Truck Fleet Maintenance

Allow for Staff Training

To effectively maintain a truck fleet, technicians must have proper training. Invest in adequate staff training and build time for it into staff schedules. Keep in mind that additional training may be necessary if you switch to trucks with alternative fuel sources. 

Use of Quality Parts and Supplies

The use of quality parts is another key factor for effective truck fleet maintenance. Poorly manufactured components can lead to unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, and increased downtime. That’s why it’s important to invest in high-quality parts from reputable suppliers who offer warranties on their products for added peace of mind.

Documentation

Lastly, proper documentation and recordkeeping is necessary for accurate tracking of vehicle information such as mileage, service records, and warranty coverage details. This helps track maintenance expenses over time and ensures you have an audit-ready service log, should inspectors ask to see it.  

Detailed records also make it easier to spot patterns involving specific vehicles within your fleet.  

Additional Ways to Minimize Fleet Operation Costs

Regular maintenance does help trucks run more efficiently, but even so, the cost of fuel can be significant for large fleets. Fuel cards can help drivers save on diesel, and there’s another way to cut fuel costs that requires no driver action: TruckWings. 

TruckWings is a telematics-powered aerodynamic device that reduces drag and trailer sway on the highway. It deploys automatically when driving speed exceeds 52 mph, closing the gap between tractor and trailer. And it retracts when speed drops below 50 mph.

TruckWings installs easily and requires minimal maintenance. And technicians don’t need special training to maintain TruckWings — just perform a visual inspection as part of your truck fleet maintenance schedule. When it’s time to replace parts, you can order them from us and follow our simple maintenance instructions. 

Let TruckWings Do the Work

Overseeing a fleet is a lot of work. But when you install TruckWings to improve your fuel economy, it continues saving you money with almost no human effort. 

Learn more about how TruckWings helped one of the largest North American fleets cut its fuel costs.

11 Effective Fuel Saving Devices for Semi Trucks

Over the last two years, fuel prices have seen a dramatic increase.

In May of 2020, gas prices reached a $1.961 per gallon low, then steadily climbed to an all-time high of $5.032 per gallon in June of 2022. Diesel prices mirrored this trend, with a low of $2.392 per gallon and a high of $5.754 during the same period.

With inflation on the rise, it wouldn’t be surprising if even higher prices are right around the corner.

What does this mean for trucking fleets? Fuel typically accounts for 60% or more of operating costs, so steep fuel prices can quickly decimate a fleet budget. The simplest way to offset high prices is to use less fuel but the question is, how?

Some fleets may consider adding EVs to their lineup, but the acquisition and operational costs typically don’t offset fuel cost savings. A more affordable approach is to purchase fuel saving devices for semi trucks, which can easily be added to existing fleet assets.

Which are the best fuel saving devices for semi trucks? These 11 semi trucks fuel saving devices can help fleets become more fuel efficient and make up for rising fuel costs.

1. TruckWings

How it works: Did you know the gap between a truck’s cab and trailer is a fuel waster? TruckWings closes this gap to reduce drag, improve stability, and increase fuel efficiency.

The tractor-mounted device deploys automatically at speeds above 52 mph to improve aerodynamics and reduce buffeting and trailer sway in crosswinds. The device then retracts when the speed dips below 50 mph. No action is needed by the driver to deploy TruckWings — eyes stay on the road and hands stay on the wheel.

Results: Users of TruckWings see 3-6% in fuel savings. That can add up to thousands of dollars in savings per truck and millions across an entire fleet. And since TruckWings is equipped with real-time telematics, fleets can easily track their return on investment.

TruckWings outperforms even the longest side-extenders on the market, making it one of the best fuel saving devices for semi trucks. So perhaps it’s not surprising that half of the 10 largest North American fleets have used TruckWings, which have stood up across 500 million miles.

Each TruckWings device also reduces 20,000 lbs/yr in carbon emissions, or the equivalent of taking two passenger cars off roadways every year, so the sustainability gains can be huge across an entire fleet.

Ryder System, Inc. tested TruckWings across 2.7 million miles and saw a 4.1% mpg improvement.

You can too.

Learn How

2. Trailer Skirts

How they work: Trailer skirts extend along the side of the trailer, from the landing gear to the front face of the front trailer axle. The most effective trailer skirts extend as low to the ground as possible. Also called “fairing,” these devices reduce aerodynamic drag on the trailer.

Results: These fuel saving devices for semi trucks typically offer up to a 5% improvement in fuel economy.

3. Roof Fairings

How they work: Roof fairings are similar to trailer skirts but are installed on the roof of tractor-trailers instead of along the side. These fuel saving devices for semi trucks improve aerodynamics by closing the gap when a significant height difference exists between a cab and a container.

Results: Depending on the type, roof fairings can reduce fuel use by 3-15%. However, these are not the best fuel saving devices for semi trucks pulling flatbeds because they can’t close the gap. Roof fairings would not be needed for semi trucks that can reduce drag simply by raising the tire height.

4. Low Rolling Resistance Tires

How they work: Rolling resistance — the friction that occurs when the surface of tires meets the road — accounts for 30-33% of the total fuel cost of a modern, aerodynamic Class 8 truck. Low rolling resistance (LRR) tires lower the resistance to improve fuel economy.

Results: A 10% drop in rolling resistance equates to about a 1% improvement in fuel economy. Fleet owners should be aware that LRR tires can wear out quickly, and because most manufacturers don’t publish their rolling resistance coefficients, there can be big differences between tire options, even if they are SmartWay certified.

5. GPS Route Planners

How they work: GPS route planners are fuel saving devices because they optimize routes to reduce the miles driven, thereby reducing fuel use.

Results: Every mile shaved off a trip saves fuel. Results of this semi truck fuel saving device will vary based on miles traveled and how efficient routes were before implementing the GPS solution.

6. Tire Inflation Systems

How they work: Tire monitoring or tire inflation systems keep tires inflated to their proper pressure. Some systems may require a driver to inflate tires when notified pressure is low, while others may automatically inflate the tires.

Results: Proper tire inflation can improve fuel economy by 0.6% on average and up to 3%.

7. Wheel Covers

How they work: Wheel covers improve aerodynamics by reducing drag around the wheels.

Results: Wheel cover kits can reduce fuel consumption by approximately 1% for both tractors and trailers. Combined, this equates to 2.61 gallons of fuel saved for every 1,000 miles driven.

8. Electronic Engine Monitoring

How they work: Electronic engine monitors measure driving performance to identify fuel-wasting behavior, such as hard braking and rapid acceleration. 

Results: Results will vary for these fuel saving devices for semi trucks based on how much driving habits have improved but could have a 20-30% improvement on overall fuel efficiency.

9. Automated Manual Transmissions

How they work: Automated manual transmissions (AMTs) have a manual gearbox, but instead of requiring the driver to shift, the clutch and gearshifts are controlled electronically to maximize engine use. AMTs monitor changing roadway conditions like road grade, acceleration, and vehicle speed, then instantly shift to the most efficient gear, saving fuel in the process.  

Results: AMTs improve fuel economy by 1% to 3%.

10. Anti-Idle Devices

How they work: Truck drivers idle engines for good reasons: keeping the engine block warm, heating and cooling the cabin when they rest, and powering cabin appliances. But doing so consumes almost a gallon of diesel fuel per hour and constitutes nearly 8% of total fuel use. Anti-idling devices provide alternative power sources to idling for these functions.

Results: A direct-fired heater that warms the engine block and provides heat for the cabin reduces fuel use during idling by 75%. Another anti-idle device is an auxiliary power unit (APU) — a generator powered by diesel fuel or batteries to heat and cool the cabin and power appliances. Diesel APUs reduce fuel consumption by 75% or more over idling.

11. Adaptive and Predictive Cruise Control

How they work: Adaptive cruise control enhances regular cruise control using a radar or laser sensor to sense the traffic ahead and adjust vehicle speed to maintain a safe distance. Predictive cruise control uses GPS to analyze the topography of upcoming sections of road for improved uphill and downhill driving.

Results: Cruise control, predictive cruise control, and adaptive cruise control can reduce fuel consumption by 1-10%. 

Reduce Your Fuel Costs 

When it comes to fuel saving devices for semi trucks, fleet owners have options.

If you’re ready to improve your fleet efficiency, learn more about how TruckWings can help you save up to 6% in fuel costs.

Shaken but Not Stirred: TruckWings Completes 1-Million-Mile Shaker Test to Prove Next-Generation Platform’s Quality

TruckLabs has demonstrated its dedication to quality by participating in an OEM-level shaker test with Hexagon Agility to validate its next-generation platform. The shaker test involved subjecting the TruckWings platform to one million miles of rigorous testing, including vibration and shock testing. The goal of the test was to ensure that the platform met the highest durability and reliability standards.

About TruckLabs 

Established in 2004, TruckLabs partners with some of North America’s largest trucking fleets to make a positive impact on carbon emissions and drive operational efficiencies for their fleet customers. The company develops innovative hardware and software solutions that produce real-world results for today’s and tomorrow’s trucking fleets.

One Million Mile Shaker Test to Test Durability

TruckLabs recently conducted a shaker test in collaboration with Hexagon Agility. We shaker tested on the new Hexagon Agility ProCab® 175 CNG fuel system with TruckLabs’ TruckWings® installed. The goal of the vibration test was to assess the durability of the TruckWings over a simulated one million miles of driving.

TruckWings installed on Hexagon Agility ProCab 175 BTC CNG fuel system

The shaker test mounted the Hexagon Agility CNG fuel system with TruckWings onto a shaker platform that simulates vibrations in all directions. The vibrations used in the test were developed by driving a truck over various types of roads on a test track at specific speeds and distances. This process was used to develop a test regimen correlated with one million miles of real-world driving. 

Shaker tests are vital because they allow you to understand when a piece of equipment or component may encounter a problem or failure and predict a product’s life cycle. It is used across multiple industries including automotive, aerospace, defense, and aviation, and is a proven solution to shorten testing without compromising results.

Measuring Success

The test lasted for almost a week and had two criteria for success: 

  1. No non-repairable component in the primary load path, including the frame and aluminum structure, could fail. 
  2. Repairable component failures were allowed if identified and repaired within corresponding real-world preventative maintenance intervals.

The Results

The recent shaker vibration test of TruckWings was a resounding success, meeting all of the established goals to demonstrate the product’s reliability. We wanted to prove that our product is reliable with over 1 million simulated road miles, and we did just that. We were able to meet all our established criteria and demonstrated TruckWings’ reliability. 

Not a single non-repairable component in the primary load path through to BTC attachment failed during the test. The only issues were individual component failures that could be easily identified and fixed during regular inspections. The hinge bushing, which is designed to wear out over time, only showed signs of wear at a significant margin beyond the recommended service interval. And even when some rivets failed, the overall structure of TruckWings has stayed intact thanks to the redundant design. This test proves that TruckWings is a reliable and durable solution for the trucking industry.

The shaker test was severe, but it does not represent all contributing factors that influence the ultimate durability of TruckWings, such as aerodynamic loading, dust and other contaminants, and temperature. This test represents just one piece of TruckLabs’ overall testing puzzle, including 600,000,000 miles of on-road observations, aerodynamic analysis, and individual component tests.

TruckLabs successfully met all of our criteria and proved the reliability of TruckWings. 

Conclusion

TruckLabs is proud to have participated in and passed this shaker vibration test and is confident that the next generations of TruckWings will exceed customer expectations. “We have been able to implement many of our learnings from the field into TruckWings over the years, and it is wonderful to see that work validated by an industry-standard, repeatable test,” Burk Kladde, VP of Engineering. We are committed to providing innovative solutions that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact for fleets today and in the future.

Scope 3 Emissions: What You Need to Know in 2023

emissions

Companies are under increased pressure to monitor, control, and reduce their carbon emissions — and that pressure is set to continue. There are a number of ways to make key changes, from simple fuel emissions reductions to identifying problematic hot spots across operations. Tackling Scope 3 emissions opens an additional opportunity to uncover ways to lower overall environmental impact and adopt climate-friendly operations and policies.


What are Scope 3 Emissions?

Most global and public companies report and account for their carbon emissions, especially those generated from direct operations. But more and more operations leaders are honing in on Scope 3 emissions as a new area of demand and opportunity as regulatory pressures mount. In fact, many companies who gain a foothold in monitoring, managing, and reporting Scope 3 emissions are finding themselves at a competitive advantage.

Scope 3 emissions cover a broad range of activities and areas, including supplier activity and employee transportation, that a company can impact indirectly. Scope 3 emissions can be produced by purchased goods and services, capital goods, waste generated in operations, and even leased assets.

From favoring sustainable suppliers to curbing business travel, managing Scope 3 emissions provides an additional way to gain ground on a company’s overall sustainability goals.

U.S. companies are mandated to step up their efforts to reduce carbon footprints according to the Paris Agreement, which 189 countries signed onto. The agreement stipulates that countries and leaders worldwide must work to reduce emissions by approximately 45% by 2030 from 2010 levels.

Tracking Scope 3 emissions can offer a way to reduce overall emissions more proactively and thoroughly as more companies build emissions reductions into their net-zero and business strategies.

Scope 1, 2, and 3 Emissions: What’s the Difference?

Source: https://pba.umich.edu/scopes-of-carbon-emissions-explained/

Global Green House Gas (GHG) protocols break emissions into three “scopes” or classifications.

Scope 1 emissions
Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions generated from owned or controlled sources, including fleet fuel use and so-called fugitive emissions, or leaks and irregular releases from storage tanks, appliances, wells, or other pieces of equipment, for example.

Scope 2 emissions
Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions from the generation of purchased energy, including from cooling systems, electricity, heating, and steam.

Scope 3 emissions
Scope 3 emissions are the result of activities from assets not owned or controlled by the reporting organization, but that the organization indirectly impacts. These include both upstream and downstream emissions that are linked to the company’s operations. Scope 3 emissions fall into 15 categories, though not all may be relevant. These emissions could include those produced by business travel, employee commuting, waste disposal, or the emissions generated by purchased goods and services or transportation and distribution.

The Challenge with Scope 3 Emissions

While chasing down Scope 3 emissions and cutting them back presents an entire frontier of emissions-reducing tactics, companies are finding major challenges with locating the sources and determining how to reduce them.

That’s because Scope 3 emissions often are outside of a company’s direct management or ownership and are hard to assess. Adding to the mix of challenges, these emissions types might also be occurring across several different companies, sometimes making it hard to determine who is responsible for making cuts.

Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions are easier to track, measure and control. Meanwhile, down the supply chain, tracking and coordinating the reduction of emissions from privately-owned businesses, including original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), may present challenges.

But businesses are undoubtedly running out of time to reduce carbon footprints as consumer purchasing behavior shifts in favor of sustainable practices, more suppliers embrace lowering emissions amid global policy trends, and stakeholders grow impatient for better, more complete reporting from all levels of operations.

Primary Scope 3 Emission Factors

Complications aside, Scope 3 emissions come from areas that are traceable and definable, including downstream and upstream sources.

Upstream
Upstream emissions sources include areas within the direct control of the company, and closer to systems and departments that can track, analyze data, and act. Upstream sources include:

  • Waste Generation: Waste sent to landfills and wastewater treatment facilities, for example.
  • Purchased Goods & Services: Extraction, production, and transportation of goods and services purchased or acquired by the company. Includes so-called “Cradle to Gate” emissions associated with the production of goods and services.
  • Transportation & Distribution: Emissions from transportation by land, sea, and air and related to third-party warehousing. The life cycle emissions are associated with manufacturing vehicles, facilities, or infrastructure, and can account for nearly a quarter of all Scope 3 emissions.
  • Fuel and Energy-Related Activities: Emissions of purchased fuels and emissions of purchased electricity are not included in Scope 1 or Scope 2. Generation of purchased electricity that is sold to end users
  • Capital Goods: Final products with an extended life, such as vehicles, buildings, and machinery, that are used by the company to manufacture a product

Downstream
Downstream emissions are sourced from areas where companies can insert their interests. Downstream categories include:

  • Use of Sold Products: End use of goods and services sold by the reporting company
  • Downstream Transportation and Distribution: Transportation and distribution of products sold between the reporting company’s operations and the end consumer
  • Investments: These can include equity investments, debt investments, project finance, managed investments, and client services
  • Franchises: Owners of franchises report the emissions created by their franchise operations and franchisees report emissions upstream
  • End-of-Life Treatment of Sold Products: Products sold to consumers that are “in use” are tracked for emissions related to product usage and disposal.

Why Measure Scope 3 Emissions?

Taking on Scope 3 emissions opens the door for businesses not only to improve their carbon impact but to attract investment and foster better innovation and collaboration with suppliers.

A business that goes after its indirect emissions achieves multiple benefits, including notching down risk within its own value chain, reassuring shareholders who are ratcheting up the pressure on companies in lockstep with mounting policy and consumer demand, and creating new opportunities with businesses, customers, and stakeholders.

As the importance of Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (ESG) gains momentum, there is growing awareness in the investment community that companies reporting and reducing all levels of carbon emissions can make for better investments. How a company tracks and mitigates its carbon emissions can have a significant impact on its profitability, risk and resilience and that has led to increased pressure to require companies to disclose more emissions information.

Aside from the appealing global impact of increased carbon reporting, consumers are increasingly demanding products and services with sound sustainability practices and standards. That means companies stand to improve bottom lines by pursuing scope emissions reductions andScope 3 emissions are the next bucket of opportunity.

Setting a focus around Scope 3 emissions also specifically ties companies more closely to their suppliers. Companies tracking Scope 3 also pay more attention to their customer’s behaviors and tracking emissions has the added benefit of uncovering additional operational cost-savings measures.

Benefits of Measuring and Reporting on Scope 3

Companies that measure and report on Scope 3 emissions tend to evaluate their overall business performance more effectively, focus on generating value from their emissions strategies, and create demonstrable impact from their emissions reductions.

Pursuing Scope 3 emissions can help companies not only further reduce their emissions but improve overall operations and performance. Added values from tracking Scope 3 can include:

  • Exposing emissions “hotspots” within a supply chain
  • Improved transparency, customer trust, brand, and reputational enhancement
  • Locating supplies that are leading in sustainability performance
  • Finding cost reduction opportunities
  • Helping suppliers bring sustainability initiatives up to new standards
  • Improving the overall sustainability rating of their products and services
  • Positive engagement with employees and consumers

Each of those benefits not only lowers a company’s overall carbon output but presents additional ways for a company to power up overall performance and improve its financial position.

6 Steps to Reduce Scope 3 Emissions

Taking steps to cut back on Scope 3 emissions can range from simple to complex. Here are some steps to get started.

  1. Determine which Scope 3 categories are relevant by taking a look at GHG protocols
  2. Collect source data from suppliers and partners for emissions related to products and services you’ve purchased
  3. Audit the supply chain to find where the greatest levels of indirect emissions may be occurring and determine if these areas can be improved
  4. Establish a single source of truth, finding a technology solution that streamlines data
  5. Take a closer look at suppliers and uncover which are focused on their own scope 3 emissions already. Find out if they are open to collaborating.
  6. Create an easy, employee-friendly approach to reducing emissions stemming from business travel and commuting.

Finding Pathways and Partners

Finding ways to reduce carbon emissions has fast become a key component of business strategy and sustainability practice among global and public companies. Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions categories provide a roadmap for specific tactics, developments, and activities companies can engage in to significantly lower their carbon impact.

Companies can create measurable impacts from relatively simple adjustments, such as lowering fuel emissions from their fleet or asking logistics partners to track and reduce their emissions. Products like TruckWings can be used to retrofit an entire trucking fleet or applied to new builds, delivering instant results. TruckWings is a tractor-mounted aerodynamic device that automatically closes the gap between cab and trailer, reducing drag, improving stability and increasing fuel efficiency, lowering emissions, and delivering 4-6% fuel savings.

California CARB Compliance: What Fleet Owners Need to Know

As of Jan. 1, the California Department of Motor Vehicles will no longer register diesel vehicles that have engines from 2009 or earlier and weigh more than 14,000 pounds. This is the latest development in a 15-year-old rule from the California Air Resource Board (CARB) that aims to reduce diesel-related air pollution that can cause cancer. 

Fleets that haven’t replaced their old engines, converted engines to run on alternative fuel, or purchased newer-model trucks now must either decommission their trucks or risk running afoul of California CARB compliance.   

What Vehicles Are Subject to CARB Compliance? 

Any vehicle that the CARB rule covers — regardless of its state of origin — must comply when it’s within the state of California. That obligation extends to brokers or carriers, who must verify that a truck is CARB-compliant before hiring or dispatching it. 

The rule includes exceptions for vehicles that are solely for personal use, and for vehicle owners that have purchased replacement engines or vehicles but are still awaiting delivery from the manufacturer.  

Similar Regulations in Other States

Several other states have either adopted California’s emissions standards or created similar standards. California’s standards are considered to be the most stringent, which means that trucks that are CARB-compliant would also be compliant with similar rules in other states. 

What Are the Penalties for Not Being CARB Compliant? 

Fines for non-compliance can be costly, especially if CARB finds that a company has knowingly violated the rule.

In 2028, CARB fined two Wisconsin-based transportation companies for non-compliance, with one company paying $100,000, and the other paying $52,500. 

What Resources are Available for Carriers That Need to Retrofit Trucks? 

The cost of converting an entire fleet to be CARB-compliant may be unmanageable for some businesses. However, there are resources available for companies that need assistance. 

For small fleets, the Carl Moyer Voucher Incentive Program provides funding of up to $520,000 for replacing vehicles. Other resources include the Funding Agricultural Replacement Measures for Emission Reductions (FARMER) Program, which helps farmers comply with CARB, and the Goods Movement Emission Reduction Program.

Another resource (that’s not specific to California) is the voucher program established by the STEER Act, which allotted $100 million in annual funding from 2022 through 2026 to retrofit eligible fleets. 

What’s Next for Truck Emissions Standards?

As of March 2023, CARB was working on rules that would require all new trucks to be “zero-emissions” by 2045. That means manufacturers would be unable to sell diesel- or gas-powered trucks beginning that year and fleets would need to begin transitioning to zero-emissions trucks before then. 

Minimizing Costs for Green Initiatives

Fleet owners and managers are understandably concerned about the costs of CARB compliance. TruckLabs offers a way for fleets to trim costs now and in the long-term, with TruckWings. 

TruckWings is compatible with most tractor-trailers, so whether you’re looking to save money on diesel or hoping to maximize the distance your electric truck can travel on a single charge, TruckWings can help. 

Unlike roof fairings and other static solutions, TruckWings is a smart aerodynamic device that deploys at high speeds to close the gap between tractor and trailer, instantly reducing drag and trailer sway. At lower speeds, TruckWings collapses flat against the tractor, so drivers don’t lose the maneuverability they need for low-speed travel. 

Find out how TruckWings can significantly reduce costs for your fleet.  

Freightliner Validates Active Aerodynamics Role in Trucking’s Future

Big-rig trucks have long faced an intractable problem: they need a large gap between the tractor and trailer to allow turning at low speeds. But at high speeds, airflow into this gap creates drag and wastes fuel.

At TruckLabs, we fixed this problem back in 2016.

Our solution, TruckWings, deploys when a truck is moving above 50 mph to streamline the airflow at high speeds, when aerodynamics matter, and then automatically retracts when a truck slows down to allow the driver to make turns. We have installed TruckWings on six of the ten largest fleets in North America and have proven results of 3-6% in overall fuel savings.

In 2023, Daimler/Freightliner agreed with us!

Seven years later, we’re thrilled to see our concept validated by one of the world’s largest truck manufacturers, Daimler Truck.  

They recently unveiled their concept truck, whose development could be funded by the Department of Energy’s SuperTruck program aimed at improving heavy-duty truck freight efficiency. The truck has an active gap-closing device much like our TruckWings. These “wings” do exactly what we describe: when you travel at highway speeds, the sides and top fold out to close the gap and save an impressive amount of fuel. 

As Daimler Truck clearly understands, the gap between the tractor and the trailer is one of the best opportunities to improve semi-truck aerodynamics, especially on day cabs and CNG/Electric trucks where the gaps are very large. Covering the gap can reduce drag by as much as 9 percent in regular conditions, and by even more during crosswinds. 

Validation that Wings Are Essential

The “wings” on Daimler’s Freightliner SuperTruck validate what TruckLabs has known since 2016:  closing the tractor-trailer gap works to reduce fuel usage. The NACFE has said it; we have said it (and proven it with an external CFD assessment from TotalSIM); and now Daimler Truck is saying it: we need to close the gap to improve fuel efficiency and emissions. 

Fleet owners don’t have to wait for this conceptual prototype to go into production to start improving fuel efficiency on their trucks. 

They can get the benefits of the futuristic Freightliner SuperTruck today.  TruckWings are available today for trucks of all fuel types, including diesel, CNG, and electric. TruckWings units are standard “drop-in” products that work across multiple OEM trucks for day cabs, sleepers, and reefers. Not only have TruckWings been validated by multiple OEM-level tests, they have been successfully deployed on trucks traveling over 600 million miles–and counting.

So congratulations to Daimler on their Freightliner SuperTruck. Welcome to the world we know and love of active aerodynamics.