Fuel is among the most significant costs for fleets (up 42.03% YoY), prompting many fleet managers to look for ways to reduce consumption. Despite the financial benefits being clear, environmental considerations are also driving this shift, as sustainability and ESG commitments gain traction.
However, decreasing fuel usage isn't always straightforward. In this blog, we outline practical tips to reduce fuel consumption and improve your fleet’s efficiency.
Driver behavior can determine how much fuel a vehicle consumes. Frequent harsh braking and rapid acceleration will dramatically increase fuel usage, as both actions demand more from the engine. It’s essential to encourage smoother, consistent driving to minimize unnecessary fuel burn.
Engines operating at high revs consume more fuel, so maintaining a steady speed within the optimal efficiency range, typically between 45 and 60 mph for most vehicles, will lead to significant savings. Although ideal speeds may vary slightly depending on road conditions, adherence to speed limits within this range can prove beneficial.
To support this, fleet dash cams, which record driver behavior and issue early hazard warnings, are invaluable. These cameras not only promote but can also coach drivers toward more economical habits.
The heavier the cargo load, the more energy is required to move it. For fleet managers, this means that managing gross vehicle weight is key to reducing fuel usage.
Choosing the right vehicle for the job is the first priority. Smaller engines often perform tasks more efficiently than larger ones, provided the vehicle is suited to the job. Fleet rightsizing and making sure vehicles are neither over- nor underspecified can result in substantial long-term fuel savings.
Moreover, vehicles should only carry what’s essential for each task – excess tools, equipment or fittings only add to fuel consumption. Likewise, distributing weight evenly improves vehicle balance and lowers mechanical strain, so providing driver training on proper loading techniques offers further help.
Engine idling is a common yet usually overlooked source of fuel waste. Traffic congestion is the primary culprit, with stationary vehicles consuming fuel without moving. As a best practice, drivers should switch off the engine if they are likely to remain stationary for over a couple of minutes.
That said, the most effective way to decrease idling is to prevent it in the first place, which can be done through route optimization. By planning the most efficient routes and adjusting them in real time, fleet managers can reduce the risk of drivers encountering heavy traffic or taking unnecessary detours.
Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, meaning the engine must work harder and burn more fuel to maintain motion. Even a minor drop in pressure will cause sizeable inefficiencies.
To avoid this, tires should be checked regularly and kept in line with the manufacturer’s recommended pressure levels. Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) provide a reliable safeguard by alerting drivers to any loss, ensuring tires remain at ideal levels throughout a journey.
Predictive tire maintenance takes this a step further. This method monitors not just pressure, but also temperature and tread wear, allowing fleet managers to proactively address problems before they affect tire performance. This can then support fuel efficiency and extend tire lifespan, ultimately reducing costs through timely replacements.
While adopting any single strategy discussed will support fuel savings, the greatest impact comes from implementing a comprehensive, data-driven approach across your entire fleet.
At MICHELIN Connected Fleet, we understand that handling these efforts can be complex, which is why we offer fleet management solutions designed to simplify the process. By combining advanced hardware and software, our platform provides a dashboard that gives managers full visibility into vehicle performance, driver behavior and operational inefficiencies.
Whether you're aiming to control costs, lower your fleet’s carbon emissions or enhance overall efficiency, our tailored solutions are here to support your goals. Learn how MICHELIN Connected Fleet can help improve operational visibility and uncover fuel-saving opportunities across your fleet. Contact us today.