Road to Riches: How HGV Drivers Can Improve Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is of utmost importance in HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) driving, as it directly impacts both drivers and the entire sector. By optimising fuel consumption, HGV drivers can reduce costs, increase profitability and contribute to a greener environment.

In this article, FleetEx, leading specialist in ex-fleet trucks and used trailers for sale, explore the practical tips for HGV drivers to improve fuel efficiency, highlighting the financial and environmental benefits it brings to the drivers themselves and the broader HGV industry.

Understanding the impact of fuel efficiency 

Anything that improves efficiency generally delivers meaningful benefits. This is definitely true of fuel efficiency in the HGV industry. Here is an overview of the three key benefits it delivers. 

Financial benefits 

This is arguably the most obvious benefit of fuel efficiency. It reduces the amount businesses have to spend on fuel. It also reduces their exposure to the impact of clean air zones. These are becoming increasingly common both in the UK and overseas. 

Making HGVs more fuel efficient can also make it easier for businesses to make accurate financial forecasts. This is because reducing the amount of fuel HGVs use reduces businesses’ exposure to the fluctuations in fuel prices.

Environmental benefits 

This is another fairly obvious benefit of fuel efficiency. HGVs are large, heavy vehicles. This means that they need a lot of fuel even when empty. For cost and efficiency reasons, however, HGVs are generally kept as full as possible as much as possible. This increases their need for fuel.

The more fuel HGVs use, the more carbon emissions they generate. The more carbon emissions they generate, the more they contribute to air pollution and climate change. This means that making HGVs more fuel efficient could have major benefits for sustainability.

Reputational benefits

These days, all businesses are expected to play their part in fighting climate change and its effects. Either they do so voluntarily, or they will be put under pressure (or obligation) to do so. 

Doing so voluntarily often delivers reputational benefits. These can translate into business benefits as clients look to demonstrate their own green credentials by vetting their suppliers for sustainability. On the flip side, businesses that do not prioritise sustainability are at increasing risk of losing business to those that do.

Tips for fuel efficiency 

The mainstays of fuel efficiency in general are vehicle maintenance, driving techniques and route planning. In the HGV industry specifically, aerodynamics and vehicle load are also important considerations. 

Vehicle maintenance 

Regular maintenance and inspections are imperative for identifying and resolving potential issues that may impact fuel efficiency. It is especially important to check the condition of the tyres, air filters and engine on a daily basis to ensure optimal performance and minimise fuel consumption. 

Tyres: Underinflated or overinflated tyres can lead to increased rolling resistance. This requires more energy to overcome and hence more fuel. Similarly, tyres with poor tread will not grip the road as they should. This will make the HGV more challenging to drive and hence use more fuel. (It may also be illegal). 

Air filters: When air filters become clogged or dirty, they hinder the airflow to the engine, leading to reduced efficiency and higher fuel consumption. 

The engine: The engine is the heart of all motor vehicles. It’s therefore essential to ensure that it is always in top condition. This includes changing the oil regularly, monitoring fluid levels, checking spark plugs are working properly and addressing any engine malfunctions promptly. 

Driving techniques 

Smooth acceleration and deceleration are key driving techniques for fuel efficiency. Abrupt or aggressive acceleration consumes more fuel and strains the engine. Similarly, sudden and harsh deceleration results in wasted energy. Gradual acceleration and deceleration help minimise fuel consumption and promote efficient driving. 

Avoiding unnecessary idling is another crucial aspect of fuel efficiency. Extended idling consumes fuel without any productive output. HGV drivers should make a point of turning off the engine during breaks or at loading docks to conserve fuel and reduce emissions. 

Excessive speed is also detrimental to fuel efficiency. Higher speeds increase aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption. Adhering to speed limits and maintaining a moderate, consistent speed significantly contribute to fuel efficiency. 

Utilising cruise control, when suitable, helps maintain a steady speed and minimises fuel consumption. It reduces the likelihood of unnecessary speed fluctuations, providing consistent fuel efficiency. 

Predictive gear shifting is another effective technique for conserving fuel. Anticipating road conditions, traffic patterns and inclines or declines allows drivers to select the appropriate gear in advance, reducing unnecessary gear changes and maximising fuel efficiency. 

Route planning 

One of the primary benefits of efficient route selection is the reduction of distance travelled. By identifying the shortest and most direct routes, drivers can significantly decrease the overall mileage, resulting in lower fuel usage and reduced operating costs. 

Avoiding congestion and roadworks is another important consideration. Traffic congestion not only leads to delays but also increases fuel consumption due to frequent stops and idling. By utilising real-time traffic information and planning routes that circumvent congested areas, drivers can maintain a smoother flow, optimise fuel efficiency and save time. 

Aerodynamics and vehicle load 

HGVs with poor aerodynamic design experience higher air resistance, leading to increased fuel consumption. This means that reducing wind resistance improves fuel efficiency. Strategies such as installing aerodynamic fairings, side skirts and roof deflectors can streamline the airflow around the vehicle, minimising drag and reducing fuel consumption. 

Ensuring optimal vehicle load is equally important, as carrying excessive weight directly impacts fuel consumption. HGV drivers should routinely check their load and verify that it adheres to recommended limits. By eliminating any unnecessary cargo and achieving even distribution, drivers can reduce engine strain, enhance fuel efficiency and optimise overall vehicle performance. 

Additionally, proper load distribution within the trailer is essential. Balancing the weight evenly across axles and maintaining a low centre of gravity helps improve stability and reduces fuel consumption. HGV drivers should follow load-securing guidelines to ensure cargo is properly restrained, preventing unnecessary movement that can impact fuel efficiency. 

Implementing fuel efficiency in the HGV sector 

The two main forces behind implementing fuel efficiency in the HGV sector are driver training and fleet management systems. 

Driver training 

Driver training should emphasise the benefits of fuel efficiency, educate drivers on fuel-saving techniques and raise awareness about the environmental impact of their driving habits. This can include classroom sessions, practical demonstrations and ongoing coaching to reinforce fuel-efficient driving behaviours. 

Eco-driving techniques to incorporate in driver education programs may include tips on smooth acceleration and deceleration, maintaining appropriate speeds, minimising idling time and optimising gear shifting. Training should also cover the importance of vehicle maintenance, route planning and load optimization. 

Fleet management systems 

Fleet management systems enable real-time monitoring of fuel consumption, mileage and other relevant parameters. They provide comprehensive reports and analytics that help identify fuel-wasting patterns, such as excessive idling or inefficient driving behaviours. Armed with this data, companies can develop targeted training programs and initiatives to address these issues and promote fuel-efficient practices among drivers. 

Implementing data analysis techniques is essential for leveraging the full potential of fleet management systems. By analysing historical data, companies can identify trends, establish benchmarks and track progress towards fuel efficiency goals. They can also identify specific areas where improvements can be made, such as route optimization or vehicle maintenance.