New technology puts an industry asset to the test
It is no secret that the Golden State has driven engine standards for both on and off-road heavy duty equipment. Now that the major upgrades for national on-road engine standards are implemented, a new set of challenges is coming to the regulated community who is being forced to adopt technology they are not previously accustomed to. Sophisticated emissions control systems are at the heart of every heavy duty diesel engine manufactured for sale today. Ever-increasing costs of these sophisticated emissions controls has forced the industry to take a hard look at cost saving measures to offset the cost of the vehicles and to save on the bottom line as everything needed to operate a transportation company becomes more expensive. Aerodynamic devices, low rolling resistant tires, route maximizations, along with technological solutions are all worthwhile budget friendly measures that may in fact boost fuel economy with little up-front costs.
It is no secret that the Golden State has driven engine standards for both on and off-road heavy duty equipment. Now that the major upgrades for national on-road engine standards are implemented, a new set of challenges is coming to the regulated community who is being forced to adopt technology they are not previously accustomed to. Sophisticated emissions control systems are at the heart of every heavy duty diesel engine manufactured for sale today. Ever-increasing costs of these sophisticated emissions controls has forced the industry to take a hard look at cost saving measures to offset the cost of the vehicles and to save on the bottom line as everything needed to operate a transportation company becomes more expensive. Aerodynamic devices, low rolling resistant tires, route maximizations, along with technological solutions are all worthwhile budget friendly measures that may in fact boost fuel economy with little up-front costs.
A not so recent discussion of potential fuel savings has
started to emerge again around the actual operation of the vehicle. Those in
the trucking industry know that you could give the same truck to two different
drivers, with the same routes under the same conditions and get two drastically
different results. The newest emissions technology is even more sensitive to
driver habits. Without proper training and direction potential fuel savings could
be lost under the pedal.
Drivers are the backbone of the transportation industry in
this country. As a consumer society, we remain oblivious to the challenges
faced by these brave men and women who dedicate their professional careers to
transporting our medicine, our groceries and our mail. Trucking is an economic
bellwether of the US; over 80% of the freight by volume is
carried by truck. With population and consumption estimates
on the rise, more trucks and more drivers will be needed to keep the wheels of
our economy turning. With an already dwindling driver pool, it is up to the
industry to best equip the hard working folks who haul our freight with the
tools necessary to maximize the return potential of this valuable equipment.
Several driver training programs are being developed to help
existing and incoming drivers understand efficient operation of these complex
machines. Serious direction from those contracting or employing drivers to
complete an efficiency management program is needed to realize additional fuel
and maintenance cost savings. Motor carriers should step up and invest in
training that providess a noticeable return in efficiency and fuel savings. After
all, since drivers are their best assets, carriers should enrich their experience to reap the rewards.
interesting news. Thank you for posting!
ReplyDeletedriver management