Managing Fuel Efficiency for Semi Trucks

Semi trucks are not known for their excellent fuel efficiency compared to regular vehicles, especially newer sedans and SUVs. However, there are ways to manage fuel efficiency for semi trucks.

Average Miles Per Gallon for Semi Trucks 

What determines the average miles per gallon for a vehicle? What factors go into having a higher fuel efficiency? What’s a good truck mileage? Semi trucks average 6-8 miles per gallon. While climbing a hill, that average can be as low as two miles per gallon, and cruising downhill can increase the miles per gallon. 

The type of truck, trailer, and engine, as well as the speed, terrain, cargo weight, tires, and body style, all affect the fuel efficiency of semi trucks. Some trucks are more aerodynamic, while others include a more fuel-efficient engine. New fully electric trucks have the best fuel efficiency by not requiring fuel.

How to Manage Fuel Efficiency for Semi Trucks 

Without buying the newest model of a semi truck with the best mpg, boasting better gas mileage and higher fuel efficiency, there are tactics drivers can use to improve their fuel efficiency no matter what truck they’re driving. These tactics are similar to those used with passenger cars and trucks. Even new semi truck drivers will be familiar with some of these skills used to increase fuel efficiency and improve truck mileage. 

Use Cruise Control

Using cruise control regulates speed and creates more efficiency. Inconsistent speeds are a common cause of lower truck mileage. Even if you’re not using cruise control, be mindful of accelerating gently. Trucks take a lot of fuel to get moving, and accelerating slowly uses less fuel. Sudden speed changes can decrease gas mileage by up to 10 percent. Try to go easy on your brakes, use downhill momentum to your advantage, and avoid excessive braking. 

Watch Your Speed

Not only is driving at the posted speed limits important for safety, but it’s also beneficial to manage fuel efficiency for semi trucks. A truck moving at 70 mph uses more fuel than one driving at 55 mph. Lower speeds cut down on wind resistance, reducing fuel usage. Your best bet is to stick to the posted speed limits or slightly below. Just don’t drive too slow and become a safety hazard. 

Avoid Idling When Possible 

Running your engine when you’re not moving is a waste of gas. Turn your engine off when it makes sense and is safe. If you’re taking a break at a truck stop, or stuck in stand-still traffic, shut your engine off. It’ll save fuel and money and reduce air pollution. Don’t worry about starting back up again – modern engines quickly start up. 

Keep Up on Maintenance 

Ensuring your truck receives regular maintenance checks and any necessary repairs increases your efficiency. A properly maintained truck can improve fuel efficiency by 5-10%. Vital areas to regularly maintain are intake systems, exhaust systems, fuel filters, and tire maintenance and alignment. 

One of the easiest ways to manage fuel efficiency for semi trucks is to keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Underinflated tires require more energy to rotate, and overinflated tires can be a safety risk. The US Department of Energy states appropriately inflated tires can improve your gas mileage by up to 3%.

Improve Truck Aerodynamics

You can install various accessories on a truck to improve the aerodynamics and therefore increase your average miles per gallon. These include side skirts, trailer tails, and wheel covers. When used properly, these devices can reduce fuel consumption by 5-15%, with an average of 10%. However, these devices won’t do much for local deliveries, as the benefits don’t start until you’re averaging 60-65 mph. 

Plan Ahead

Planning can be beneficial for long-haul drivers. Planning out fuel and rest stops along your route before you hit the road can ensure you’re making the most of your trip, not going far out of your way, and filling up at the best spots. There are a variety of GPS and trip-planning tools to help you make the most of your fuel. 

Lighten the Load

The lighter your load, the higher your fuel efficiency. Excess weight can be removed by using lighting package materials. Consolidating routes and shipments so no one is driving a half-filled trailer is also a great way to reduce the number of trips and save fuel.

Cut the Air Conditioner 

When the weather allows, avoid cranking the air conditioner. Turning off the air conditioner can improve fuel mileage by up to 10%. If you can handle it, try limiting the AC usage. Portable, battery-operated fans you can place in the cab might be able to get some air flowing without impacting your truck’s mileage. 

Semi Trucks With the Best MPG

If you’re looking for a new (or used) semi truck, you might wonder, “What are the trucks with the best mpg?” Chicago’s Handshake Fleet offers numerous ideal options. The Freightliner Evolution 1 boasts an average mileage of around 10 miles to the gallon, while the Peterbilt 579 Equip offers nine miles. The Mack Pinnacle is still above average with 7.6 mpg. The trucks with the best mpg tend to be newer models that average between 7-10 miles per gallon.

Truck mileage won’t compare to that of passenger vehicles. However, there are plenty of ways of managing fuel efficiency for semi trucks, and new technological advancements are constantly improving fuel efficiency.