5 key points for reducing the fuel consumption of your trucks and your CO2 emissions

If you are managing a haulage business, fuel is a major cost to your business. Despite the soaring prices at the fuel pumps, fuel consumption shouldn't be an issue with a sober and efficient truck. Reducing CO2 emissions is also at the forefront of our minds, as we strive to comply with stricter emissions regulations. Our experts are here to help you choose the right vehicle and find the configuration that meets your requirements and offers the best possible fuel economy, thus being more environmentally friendly. To assist you, here are 5 key points to bear in mind.

The role of the driver is fundamental in reducing fuel consumption and in supporting the success of your business. Investment in training means looking for results in the long term. We offer training courses in economical driving which can take place either at our training centre or on your own premises using your own vehicles. As a result, you will be able to develop the know-how of your drivers, which will contribute to your profitability in the long term. 

Over the years, we have committed to developing and providing a large number of technological solutions with the aim of reducing the fuel consumption of our vehicles. Our Fuel Eco pack includes various innovations for reducing the fuel consumption of your vehicles, such as configurable engine stop/start functions, "power" mode inhibition and variable-flow pumps. The cruise control also integrates an "Eco Cruise Control" mode, which optimises gear shifting to prioritise fuel economy.  

Furthermore, our T, T High, C and K ranges are equipped with the new DE11 and DE13 engines, which, coupled with advanced technology such as "Turbo Compound" and dedicated services, result in a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions reaching up to -10 % (compared to the previous generation of DTI 11 and DTI 13 engines). "Turbo Compound" enables higher levels of torque to be developed, at low engine speeds. Similarly, the "Smart Torque Control" solution maximises time spent in the zone offering the best engine performance, without impacting manoeuvrability. 

Furthermore, the new 460 HP DE11 engine, which will be available on D Wide and C 2.3 vehicle drivelines, will make fuel consumption reductions of up to 10% a possibility. 

Renault Trucks also recommends a maximum vehicle speed of 88 km/h. This is preset as default in the on-board software of the trucks that leave our production facility. Indeed, limiting speed in this way impacts journey times by only a few minutes but represents a reduction in fuel consumption of 1% (over the same journey travelled at 90 km/h)! 

Similarly, with the aim of improving the fuel economy of your trucks, it is important to select the correct drive shaft and final drive ratio. We have developed a powerful tool which you can use to ascertain the most suitable drive shaft as a function of the aforementioned two main criteria and your use: maximum required average speed, tyre fitment, etc. 

Deciding on the best configuration for your truck also involves taking into account aerodynamics, which although often overlooked, is of paramount importance.Renault Trucks has been designed, right from the concept phase, to have a reduced drag coefficient. For this reason, the cab is trapezoidal in shape; wider at the rear than at the front, with a windscreen canted backwards by 12%. The vehicle is also equipped as standard with an integral deflector which can be adjusted to 5 different positions. If reducing fuel consumption is your main priority, you may opt for heavy-duty aerodynamic components. You could choose reinforced side deflectors, fairing extensions over the chassis or door extension pieces. Combined, these components could reduce fuel consumption by more than 1%. Offset against the number of miles covered, this could amount to considerable savings. 

Whatever your objectives for reducing fuel consumption, please do not hesitate to contact us. 

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